Analysing the Spatial Distribution of Changing Labour Force Dynamics in the Pilbara

Abstract

The Pilbara region, a large mining-dominated remote region of Western Australia, has experienced rapid development from increased demand for raw commodities such as iron ore . Significant changes in geographic labour force dynamics have occurred with increased mobility of workers. This research analyses the spatial and temporal distributions of mining-related geographic labour force mobility in Australia using the Pilbara region as a case study and the results of historical and current census activities from the Australian Bureau of Statistics . Research has shown that residential mobility and long-distance commuting increased between 2001 and 2011, with significant increases experienced during the peak of the mining boom between 2006 and 2011. Changes in geographic labour force mobility have impacted both regional and urban centres of Australia as well as increased the participation rates of local government areas. The results of this research highlight the value in geovisualisation and the need to analyse the spatial and temporal dimensions of impacts of mining development when planning for regional communities affected by such industrial activities.