Traditional owners collaborate on water project in the Pilbara  

Originally published on 21 February 2025

The Pilbara is set to become home to Australia’s first desalination plant developed in partnership with a First Nations group.   

Australian water infrastructure developer Legacie has partnered with Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation, French water company Suez, water desalination advisory firm Sequana and the Australian Renewable Energy Hub (AREH) - which is undertaking an ongoing initial feasibility study - to develop the Ngarluma Water Project.   

Located on the coastline of the Balla Balla region, the seawater desalination project will be powered by renewable energy, supporting the region’s industrial water supply while delivering long-term benefits to the Ngarluma people.    

Legacie’s Managing Director, Daniel Lambert emphasised the importance of First Nations groups benefiting from projects developed on their land. 

Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation will have an option for equity and a seat on the board.  

"This is the first time in Australia that a First Nations group has had equity in a water desalination project,” he said.   

Situated 10km west of the Balla Balla River, the plant will service Western Australia’s Maitland and Boodarie Strategic Industrial Areas.    

Designed to produce up to 150GL of fresh water annually, it will provide industry with a water source not dependent on valuable groundwater.    

"We are so excited about a project of this scale, delivering sustainable water and protecting the environment in terms of our precious groundwater resources," Mr Lambert said.   

With the Pilbara playing a central role in Western Australia’s transition to net zero, securing long-term water solutions is crucial.

Ngarluma Water will provide a water source to meet mining demands and help fuel the region’s green energy transition, potentially supplying water to vital projects like the AREH.   

Mr Lambert said discussions are underway with potential off-takers – companies that agree to purchase a portion of Ngarluma Water's future output. 

 “For off-takers, the benefit is that they will not have to develop their own water project, they won’t have to fund the capex or operate a scheme that is not their core business,” Mr Lambert said.   

“In addition, it will enable them to support a scheme that provides long term water security, delivers benefits to First Nations communities and doesn’t adversely impact groundwater sources.”  

Construction of the Ngarluma Water project is expected to begin in 2027, with first water production planned for in 2031.