Port Hedland
WA 6721 • Rest of WA
About Port Hedland
Port Hedland is a remote coastal port town in Western Australia's Pilbara region, approximately 1,640 kilometres north of Perth within the Town of Port Hedland local government area. The town's population of 4,081 skews heavily towards working-age adults — particularly those aged 25 to 44 — reflecting its role as one of Australia's most significant iron ore export hubs, home to operations by BHP and Fortescue Metals Group. Median personal income of $1,859 per week is among the highest in Australia, driven by the resources sector and a substantial FIFO (fly-in fly-out) workforce. The town has a multicultural character, with residents drawn from across Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the Philippines.
Port Hedland's economy centres almost entirely on its deep-water port, which handles enormous volumes of iron ore bound for Asian markets, making it one of the busiest bulk export ports in the world. The Boulevard Shopping Centre anchors everyday retail, complemented by local services, schools, and a small but active hospitality scene. Despite its remote location and harsh, hot climate, the town offers a surprising range of community facilities and outdoor activities, including foreshore areas and access to the surrounding Pilbara landscape. Port Hedland Airport connects residents to Perth and other regional centres, making it a practical base for those working in the resources industry.
Port Hedland falls under postcode 6721 and is governed by Port Hedland Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Pilbara electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Town of Port Hedland local bus — South Hedland / local areas Varies by route
Commute to Perth CBD
🛣️ Flights are the primary long-distance transport; Port Hedland Airport has regular services to Perth and Darwin
A car is essential for daily life in Port Hedland; distances between facilities and the heat of the Pilbara make walking impractical for most errands
Supermarkets Nearby
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WoolworthsBoulevard Shopping Centre, Anderson Street Port Hedland 6721 WA
Schools
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Corney Street
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Waldren Street
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35 Sutherland Street
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Strelley Pastoral Lease
Housing 2021 Census
72 state housing + 10 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. New Zealand 200
- 2. England 107
- 3. South Africa 68
- 4. Philippines 55
- 5. India 45
- 6. Zimbabwe 38
- 7. Scotland 29
- 8. Ireland 24
- 9. China 23
- 10. Thailand 20
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)