Major works to expand the import and export capacity at the Port of Port Hedland in Western Australia is getting underway.
The Australian Government is committing $565 million towards the project that will help unlock trade and investment opportunities as well as create hundreds of new jobs and drive the nation’s Net Zero future.
“The Pilbara has been at the heart of our nation’s economic strength for decades, generating wealth for the entire country and supporting thousands of jobs across Western Australia.
“This port expansion will help to position Port Hedland at the forefront of the future green industries that will drive our State’s economy for decades to come.
“We’re investing in projects to diversify our economy and create jobs right across the State,” Premier Mark McGowan said.
The significant funding will enable works to be carried out to expand Lumsden Point in the Port of Port Hedland, which is going to be delivered in partnership with the Western Australian Government with a contribution of $96.5 million towards the project.
This project will deliver new multi-user facilities and berths to diversify trade in the region of Pilbara and support the growth of Australia’s and the global renewable industries.
The works will enable the increase in capacity to export battery metals – such as lithium and copper concentrates – and import of renewable energy infrastructure including wind turbines and blades. In addition, the works will support Pilbara’s growth in direct shipping services.
“Demand is growing locally and overseas for clean energy sources and our Government’s investment in the Lumsden Point expansion will help position Northern Australia to take advantage of the economic opportunities this demand presents,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.
Infrastructure Australia has identified improving the capacity of Pilbara Ports as a national infrastructure priority.
The Lumsden Point project is part of the Port of Port Hedland Development Plan Review that was undertaken to maximise the port’s export capacity.
The first stage of the Lumsden project will involve constructing two seawalls and a new causeway that links the wharf to the proposed logistics hub.
“The Pilbara is the engine room of both the Western Australian and Australian economies, and it’s so important we have both levels of government working together to expand our export and import capacity.
“We have a lot of natural advantages in Western Australia, but we must keep investing in the infrastructure that will drive our future growth, and ensure our State and country capitalises on the opportunities that come from the transition to renewables,” WA Minister for Transport Rita Saffioti said.
MGN Civil has been appointed to build the first seawall and a tender for the delivery of the second seawall is set to be released soon.
Businesses based in the Pilbara region will benefit from the contract award for the first seawall, with about 90 per cent of materials and suppliers for the project to be sourced within the region. Additionally, sub-contracting and labour opportunities will also be available along with partnerships with First Nation businesses and economic opportunities for north-west communities.
“Investment in good infrastructure opens doors and opportunities for businesses and communities, and that’s exactly what this project is all about.
“By making use of local expertise and materials for the first seawall, this project will drive a real short-term employment and economic boost while delivering lasting infrastructure that will continue to benefit the region well into the future,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said.
Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Pilbara Ports Authority; Daily Cargo News