PermacultureWest: an Australian icon growing strong in WA
- Simmone Sache
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 4
PermacultureWest has been at the forefront of sustainable living since the 1970s, when permaculture was first developed in Australia. What began as a grassroots movement has grown into a global philosophy for working with, rather than against, nature. Over the decades, PermacultureWest has adapted to cycles of popularity, but its mission of helping people build better relationships with the land, resources, and their communities has not changed.
Today, the association is evolving to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Peter Austin, a long-serving member since 1988, has held nearly every committee role and is now part of the team reshaping its future.
“We used to meet monthly at places like the Bassendean Community Centre,” Peter recalls. “Everything relied on printed newsletters, and we learned through hands-on workshops. Today, it’s different. People are more digitally connected, but the heart of permaculture is still about building community and connecting people. You can’t get that online, so we need to evolve to meet the needs of our members.”
As the world changes, PermacultureWest is bridging the gap between fragmented sustainability efforts across WA. From fermenters and composters to chefs, gardeners, and repairers, countless groups unknowingly share permaculture principles. By connecting these groups, the association hopes to support a more resilient future.
“Permaculture is more than gardening,” Peter explains. “It’s about systems thinking observing, planning, and acting with long-term impact in mind. Learning these principles changed how I see the world. I built a pergola to block the summer sun and keep my house cool. Combined with high ceilings, insulation, shading on the back deck, and a peppermint tree that blocks the afternoon sun, our home stays comfortable without air conditioning. It’s not just one solution but small, thoughtful changes working together.”
Beyond the home, permaculture principles can transform industries. Peter highlights regenerative farming, where consumer demand for sustainable, ethical food is driving change. Farmers are improving soil health, reducing costs, and building long-term resilience. “It shows how small actions, scaled up through collective effort, can reshape entire industries,” he says.
Individual efforts add up, but collaboration multiplies the impact. PermacultureWest’s goal is to create a network where knowledge is shared, connections are strengthened, and people are empowered to act.
