WAPort & river
Dampier
A purpose-built sea outlet for the Pilbara’s iron ore.
1966–68Company port town established
WHAT STARTED IT
Dampier was built as the coastal end of Hamersley Iron’s mining system. Inland mines, a railway and port facilities were developed together, with the town providing housing and services for the port workforce.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
Dampier was established between 1966 and 1968 to house workers at Hamersley Iron’s port facilities. It began as a closed company town, and later home ownership and sales opened it to residents working for a wider range of employers.
TURNING POINTS
1966–68Dampier is established as a company town for Hamersley Iron port workers.
Early 2000sHomes enter the open market, broadening the town beyond Hamersley Iron employees.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A working port town close to Karratha, with resources employment and coastal recreation. The industrial link between inland mines and export shipping remains its central purpose.