proud to play our part
investing in onslow’s water future
The contribution was made under the Ashburton North State Development Agreement and is part of the Wheatstone Joint Venture’s ongoing commitment to the Onslow community.
Together with the Western Australian State Government, the commitment to the Onslow Water Infrastructure Upgrade Project, forms part of a combined $94 million effort to ensure sustainable water supply for Onslow by early 2026.
This important infrastructure project not only addresses current water challenges but also prepares Onslow for future growth and resilience.
Representing Chevron was Wheatstone Production Manager Brett McCarthy (right) joined by (left to right): Cr Audra Smith, President, Shire of Ashburton; Evan Hambleton, General Manager Assets Planning and Delivery, Water Corporation; James Beattie, Project Director, Guidera O’Connor; Hon Simone McGurk MLA, Minister for Water; Hon Peter Foster MLC, Member for Mining and Pastoral Regions.
Chevron Australia Managing Director Mark Hatfield emphasised the project's significance, stating: “We’re proud to play our part in bringing water security and long-term benefits to the Onslow community through contributions made by Chevron Australia and the Wheatstone Joint Venture Participants.
“In partnership with the WA State Government, we’ve contributed $69 million towards making the Onslow water infrastructure upgrade and Seawater Desalination Plant become a reality to secure the town’s drinking water supply into the future.
“Contributing to social and critical infrastructure in the communities in which we operate ensures the town and the region continue to thrive and makes a positive difference for the people of Onslow.”
Premier Roger Cook, Minister for State and Industry Development, Jobs and Trade highlighted the importance of the project: “Water security is fundamental to economic development, which is why my Government is committed to delivering projects to meet the future water needs of residents, businesses and industry alike.”
The desalination plant will have the capacity to produce 1.5 million litres of drinking water daily, providing a reliable alternative to the weather-dependent Cane River borefield which was also upgraded as part of the project.
In addition to enhancing water security, the project is expected to create over 300 jobs during construction, with a focus on engaging local businesses to support economic growth in Onslow and the broader Pilbara region.
Chevron Australia and the Wheatstone Joint Venture Participants remain committed to supporting the Onslow community, including essential infrastructure under the Onslow Water Infrastructure Upgrade Project.
The Wheatstone Project is a joint venture between Australian subsidiaries of Chevron (64.14 percent), Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (KUFPEC) (13.4 percent), Woodside Energy Group Ltd (13 percent), and Kyushu Electric Power Company (1.46 percent), together with PE Wheatstone Pty Ltd, part-owned by JERA (8 percent).
