When stakeholders first came together in 2019, East Newman faced real pressure. Housing was ageing and vacant, there were few services on the ground, and there was a general sense that the benefits of a changing economy weren’t reaching everyone. Community leaders hoped that if everyone aligned behind a common vision, things could be different.
Six years on, that hope is becoming something you can see.
It started with a dream. In 2020, Nyiyaparli and Martu signed the This Is Our Dream Cultural Compact, a declaration to do business in a new way, together, for the benefit of all. It was an invitation to others to listen, follow and walk alongside.
The dream became a plan. From the Compact grew the East Newman Precinct Structure Plan (ENPSP), a First Nations-led blueprint for East Newman built around Strong Culture, Strong Families. Led by Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation (KNAC), Jamukurnu Yapalikurnu Aboriginal Corporation (JYAC) and Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service (PAMS), it was approved by the Western Australian Planning Commission in 2024. This historic, community-led planning decision was further recognised by the leaders of the plan winning the Institute of Australian Planning’s national Planning on Country award in 2025.
And the plan became a build. Today, the East Newman Revitalisation Project is underway. The streets are changing with new plantings, better lighting, safer paths and murals painted with children in East Newman. Homes once empty are being cared for and lived in again. And the services are coming to the people: a wellness space, spaces for children and families, accommodation for people traveling from remote communities for medical care as well as a youth hostel. The Shire of East Pilbara is also regularly running events and activities in East Newman. Families can access more of what they need, closer to home and Country.
Through the efforts of many, the dream is becoming real.
The community has driven this plan, guided throughout by the new Nyiyaparli and Martu vision, built on one idea: Strong Culture, Strong Families. The project has been backed by BHP as principal funder, the Shire of East Pilbara, and all three levels of government. The 2025–2027 Roadmap, launched recently and co-designed with Traditional Owners and community partners, sets the next chapter.
Part of a bigger story. The East Newman Revitalisation is one chapter of Newman Futures, which is working for the benefit of the whole Newman community, across economy, education, liveability and culture.
One June 30,2026 the WA Government and BHP announced a $45 million investment in housing through the Resources Community Investment Initiative (RCII). The fund includes $15 million to convert up to 40 vacant homes in East Newman into affordable accommodation for essential workers. It also will fund $30 million for new homes in remote Aboriginal communities.
