Jigalong power and water upgrades complete

The State Government has completed delivery of a new power station and high-quality water supply to the remote East Pilbara community of Jigalong, thanks to a $10 million investment made possible by the Royalties for Regions program.
  • $10 million in Royalties for Regions funding to upgrade water and power supplies
  • State Government funds the Housing Authority to deliver the Remote Area Essential Services Program to Aboriginal communities

The State Government has completed delivery of a new power station and high-quality water supply to the remote East Pilbara community of Jigalong, thanks to a $10 million investment made possible by the Royalties for Regions program.

Housing Minister Colin Holt said the completion of the project to replace the old power station and improve water quality would help secure the future of the community.

"This Government has made a significant investment in upgrades to the water and power supplies at Jigalong," Mr Holt said.

"Previously high nitrate levels have been reduced to well below the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and the new power station has been built to cater for future growth.

"These works will also support the construction and refurbishment of housing and health facilities in the community."

The principal contractor for the power project was Kimberley Regional Service Providers, a registered Aboriginal business.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the infrastructure upgrades would provide a safer and more reliable and efficient power and water supply to the Jigalong community.

"This investment will also allow for social, economic and business development opportunities within the community during cultural and sporting events," Mr Redman said.

"The project is yet another example of how Royalties for Regions is delivering positive outcomes in regional Western Australia through the development of strong and sustainable communities."

The 2011 Australian Census recorded a population of 427 people at Jigalong, on the western edge of the Little Sandy Desert. The community has a medical centre and a school providing education for about 120 children from kindergarten to Year 12.

Fact File

  • Jigalong was established in 1907 as a maintenance and rations store for workmen constructing the rabbit-proof fence and was later a camel breeding site
  • Jigalong was the home of Molly Craig, the young Aboriginal girl whose 1,600km trek from the Moore River Native Settlement back to Jigalong was told in the book and later movie Rabbit-Proof Fence
  • For more information on Royalties for Regions projects, visit Bigger Picture - Regions

Housing Minister's office - 6552 6100

Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6700