- New immersive habitat learning space coming to Perth Zoo
- Initiative underpinned by $10 million investment from BHP through Resources Community Investment Initiative
- Supports Cook Government's plan to help Western Australians to enjoy and appreciate nature
The Cook Labor Government's efforts to have more Western Australians enjoy and appreciate nature have been bolstered with a new immersive habitat learning space to be built at Perth Zoo.
The project - funded courtesy of $10 million from BHP - marks another milestone in Perth Zoo's 20-year Master Plan 2040 and is a flagship initiative under the government's Resources Community Investment Initiative (RCII).
The state-of-the-art facility will capture the Pilbara's unique ecology, blending living flora and fauna into a unique experience.
Designed to inspire and educate, the habitat will immerse students, tourists, and visitors into the iconic red desert and enable them to explore one of Western Australia's most treasured regions without leaving the city.
The immersive habitat will provide opportunities for visitors get up close to free roaming wildlife, providing a unique tourism and educational opportunity for the State. The space will connect to the zoo's existing Australian Bushwalk and behind-the-scenes Native Species Breed for Release Program facilities.
The visionary project builds on existing zoo Discovery and Learning facilities by taking immersive learning to new heights.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with the space expected to open in 2028.
As stated by Premier Roger Cook:
"My government is committed to protecting Western Australia's environment so future generations can continue to enjoy the economic and social benefits of our natural environment.
"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 - including creating a whole-of-gulf marine park in Exmouth.
"I'd like to thank BHP for their contribution, without which this new learning space wouldn't be possible."
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
"Perth Zoo's new Pilbara immersive learning space will bring the spirit and stories of the Pilbara right into the heart of Perth.
"It's a meaningful way to help visitors connect with our State's unique ecology and wildlife like never before.
"It will be more than just a classroom, it will be a space for unforgettable moments to spark curiosity in our young people.
"By inspiring future generations, we're shaping Perth Zoo's role as a centre for learning and conservation."
Comments attributed to BHP Western Australia iron ore asset president Tim Day:
"The Pilbara is the heart of BHP's WA operations and it's why we've teamed up with the State Government to bring the region to life right here at Perth Zoo.
"It's about backing the community and sparking curiosity in young people - inspiring them to learn more about the region that powers the nation.
"We're really pleased that our contribution is making this possible and helping more West Aussies connect with the Pilbara's story and its future."
