Western Australia’s Environmental Protection Authority has approved construction of the $4 billion Port Hedland Iron Project, a groundbreaking downstream processing facility at the Boodarie Strategic Industrial Area, just 10 km southwest of Port Hedland.

This will transform Australia’s resource economy by shifting from raw ore exports to the production of higher-value hot briquetted iron (HBI) and pellets—positioning the region as a leader in value‑added iron exports.

Upon commencement, the project is set to generate approximately 1,603 construction jobs and 400 operational roles, delivering a substantial boost to local employment and economic activity.

Backed by global steelmaker POSCO (with partners like Marubeni and China Steel Corporation), the project aims to supply 2 million tonnes of HBI annually (plus pellets) and strive for full renewable energy powering by 2049–2050.

Key stakeholders see this as pivotal for diversifying Port Hedland’s economy and attracting further industrial development.

Source: Link