WAMining
Collie
Coal built the town—and now its future is changing.
1897Town proclaimed
WHAT STARTED IT
Collie developed as Western Australia’s coal-mining centre. Coal deposits attracted miners and investment, and railway access connected the field to customers elsewhere in the state.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
The town was proclaimed in 1897, and mining drove rapid growth from the following year. Coal later supported large power stations, making the town an important part of WA’s electricity system. This created a strong local dependence on the coal and energy industries.
TURNING POINTS
1897Collie is proclaimed as a town.
1898The coalfield and railway stimulate rapid development.
2026–30A transition plan supports new industries and jobs.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A town undergoing a planned transition as state-owned coal-fired generation is scheduled to retire by 2030. New industries, training and tourism projects are intended to broaden its employment base.