BHP invests $10m for a Pilbara-inspired immersive habitat in Perth Zoo

A new, immersive habitat reflecting the landscape of the Pilbara will be the next milestone for Perth Zoo’s 20-year Master Plan 2040.

Funded by BHP (ASX: BHP), the project will capture the Pilbara’s unique ecology consisting of iconic red dirt, flora and fauna for those to experience without having to leave the city of Perth.

The new habitat will allow visitors to be up close with roaming wildlife, designed to educate and inspire those who visit in a state-of-the-art immersive zoo experience.

WA Premier Roger Cook comments on the Resources Community Investment Initiative.

“[The WA Government] is committed to protecting WA’s environment so future generations can continue to enjoy the economic and social benefits of our natural environment,” he said.

“The Resources Community Investment Initiative is part of that strategy, with this new, immersive habitat learning space to help kids enjoy and appreciate nature.

“This builds on my government’s multimillion-dollar investment in the zoo, as well as our broader plan to protect and restore our state’s environment.”

BHP WA iron ore asset president Tim Day comments on the partnership.

“The Pilbara is the heart of BHP’s WA operations and it’s why we’ve teamed up with the [WA] Government to bring the region to life right here at Perth Zoo,” he said.

“It’s about backing the community and sparking curiosity in young people —  inspiring them to learn more about the region that powers the nation.”

This is the latest investment by BHP into the Resources Community Investment Initiative following the initial $250m commitment in 2022.

In FY25, BHP invested $195.9b (US$127.8b) into social initiatives that aligned with its social value framework.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 with the space expected to open in 2028.