Published on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 at 5:30:00 PM
The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has welcomed a delegation from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) as part of an international study tour focused on sustainable development in mining regions.
The delegation, which included senior government officials from Laos and representatives from UN ESCAP, visited the city to gain a deeper understanding of how a resource-based community can grow into a strong, sustainable and thriving regional centre.
The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the City's experience in balancing the opportunities created by mining with the long-term needs of the community, while continuing to invest in infrastructure, services and quality of life.
Delegates met with City representatives at the Kalgoorlie Town Hall to discuss regional growth, the role of local government, community development and the challenges and opportunities that come with supporting a mining-driven economy.
Deputy Mayor Terrence Winner shared the story of Kalgoorlie-Boulder's evolution from a gold rush settlement into one of Australia's most significant regional cities, now home to around 30,000 residents and supported by strong infrastructure, essential services and a proud community identity.
Councillors Deborah Botica and Kristy Dellar, along with Acting CEO Mal Osborne and members of the City’s Executive Leadership Team, also joined the discussion, answering questions and sharing insights from their experience in local government.
Topics discussed during the visit included workforce attraction and retention, housing affordability, managing FIFO workforces, economic diversification and ensuring the benefits of mining investment continue to support long-term community growth.
The delegation also toured the Super Pit, gaining a firsthand understanding of its significance to the region's economy and the important role mining continues to play in supporting local jobs, businesses and community development.
Deputy Mayor Winner said it was a privilege to share Kalgoorlie-Boulder's story with the international delegation.
"Kalgoorlie-Boulder has a unique story to tell. Mining has shaped our community for more than 130 years and continues to play a vital role in our economy, but what makes this city special is the people, services and opportunities that have grown alongside it," he said.
"It was a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences, and we were pleased to share some of the lessons we've learned as a regional mining city. We wish the delegation all the best for the remainder of their visit to Australia."
Photo: Deputy Mayor Terrence Winner, Cr Deborah Botica, Cr Kirsty Dellar and A/CEO Mal Osborne with UN delegates at the Kalgoorlie Town Hall.
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