Djukun Nation Opposes Yawuru PBC-Approved $200 Million Floating Jetty Development
Image credit supplied: Floating Jetty Construction, Broome Port, Western Australia 2025.
The Djukun Traditional Owners are voicing strong opposition to the $200 million floating jetty development, which was approved by the Yawuru Native Title Holders Aboriginal Corporation Prescribed Body Corporate (Yawuru PBC). The Yawuru PBC gave the government the greenlight without consulting the Djukun Nation, is raising serious concerns about transparency and cultural integrity.
Despite being recognised as Native Title Holders of the Country on which the jetty is currently being constructed, the Djukun were not consulted about the project, when it was approved by the Yawuru PBC.
Construction began in early November 2024 with the very first pylons being hammered into the reef. The Djukun Traditional Owners have questioned the intentions of the Yawuru PBC, especially as reports have surfaced about Yawuru PBC board members directly benefiting from the project. Some Yawuru PBC board members are allegedly employed as cultural advisors, earning up to $120 per hour, while disregarding environmental damage.
Djukun Elder Mary Ozies expressed her disappointment, highlighting the lack of consultation and the environmental consequences of the project. "When the pylons were being hammered into the reef, I could hear the loud thumping noise several kilometres away, is a tragic example of how this development is harming our ecosystem" Mary stated.''
Djukun woman Yisah Bin Omar said "once construction commenced I was advised that when the pylons were being hammered into the reef dead fish had floated to the surface, this is another example of how this development is having a devasting impact on our environment," Yisah stated.
The Djukun Nation stands firmly against the floating jetty, emphasing their role as custodians of the land and their unwavering commitment to preserving the cultural, environmental, and historical integrity of Djukun Country.
Image credit supplied: Floating Jetty Construction, Broome Port, Western Australia 2025.
The Djukun Traditional Owners are calling for accountability, urging the government and Yawuru PBC to halt the project and engage in genuine dialogue. The Djukun Traditional Owners continue to advocate for the protection of their land and the inclusion of their voices in decisions affecting their cultural heritage.
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