WAPlanned settlement
Karratha
More workers than nearby Dampier could house.
1968Town planning begins
WHAT STARTED IT
Karratha was planned to accommodate the expanding iron-ore workforce and the housing needs that nearby Dampier could not meet. The state government and Hamersley Iron developed a new town with room to grow.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
Planning began in 1968 and permanent buildings followed in 1970. The local council moved its administration here in 1975, reinforcing Karratha’s role as a regional centre rather than only a company settlement.
TURNING POINTS
1968Planning begins for the new town.
1970The first permanent buildings are constructed.
1975Council administration moves to Karratha.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A Pilbara service and administrative city supporting major resources industries. Its wider civic role grew from a very practical housing problem created by industrial expansion.