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Miocene evolution of one of the world's largest carbonate systems on Australia's NW Shelf is investigated here through an integrated outcrop, sample, petrographic and seismic study. Early Miocene foraminiferal deposits formed a ramp despite palaeoenvironmental analysis suggesting accumulation in warm waters. Coral-rich, lagoonal facies, dated through foraminiferal biostratigraphy, are present in Middle Miocene strata post-dating the Miocene Climatic Optimum. The switch from a ramp to rimmed platform and the development of a> 2,000 km long reef province may have been influenced by eustatic variations, increased tectonic activity associated with Australia-SE Asia collision, oceanic current reorganisation and climate change.