Expressions of Interest process begin for Cairns Common User Facility project

The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments are taking a step forward in the delivery of the Cairns Common User Facility by opening registrations for Expressions of Interest from the private sector to co-invest in the facility’s delivery and operations.

The decision to seek private sector investment resulted from a review by Ports North. An industry briefing will soon be carried out to provide more details on the opportunity, including the market engagement process and co-investment approach.

Interested parties are invited to register their interest in attending the upcoming industry briefing by emailing CMPenquiry@portsnorth.com.au.

The project’s delivery is led by Ports North and backed by investments from the Australian and Queensland Governments.

“The Albanese Government is investing in critical infrastructure to support the economic development of Northern Australia and grow our marine and maritime industries.

“A common user model allows industries to share infrastructure, lowering barriers to entry and supporting job creation and long-term economic development.

“This builds on the work the Albanese Government is doing across the maritime sector, including the establishment of the maritime strategic fleet, increased investment in maritime skills and training and the review of the Coastal Trading Act,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said.

“We have consistently said that, along with the Commonwealth, we remain committed to the Cairns Common User Facility despite the cost blowouts, which is disappointingly eventuated under the former state government.

“Today’s announcement is further evidence of our commitment to delivering this capability for Far North Queensland and is a reflection of the fact we know how important the marine industry is for Cairns’ employment and economic growth,” QLD Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said.

The new Common User Facility at the Cairns Marine Precinct will help strengthen regional economies through the creation of skilled jobs and delivery of long-term infrastructure for Far North Queensland. It will also significantly expand the region’s marine maintenance, repair and overhaul capability.

The facility is the answer to growing regional, national and global demand for maritime services, which is driven by increased activity across defence programs, commercial fleets and marine industries.

“The Albanese Government has been a strong advocate for this project since day one.

“We know the Cairns Marine Precinct is vital for this region, and our government is committed to its delivery.

“The project is important to Far North Queensland’s future.

“That’s why we have always backed this project and we continue to do that today,” Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland Nita Green said.

The Common User Facility is designed to support a wide range of vessels including defence and government fleets, commercial shipping, superyachts and specialist operators. This reflects the scale and complexity of maritime activity across Northern Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.

Once completed, the facility will provide shared infrastructure for several operators to improve asset utilisation while also reducing operational constraints and supporting more efficient maintenance services.

The proposed Common User Facility will include:

• A 5,000-tonne shiplift capable of lifting vessels up to 120 metres
• All-weather, climate-controlled sheds for blasting and painting
• 100-metre wet berth for in water maintenance
• Hardstand areas for out of water repair and maintenance works
• Supporting infrastructure including washdown bays and a Self-Propelled Modular Transporter

“We have heard how important the common user facility is for the Cairns region, and we are getting on with delivering the project, just like we promised.

“Along with the Sovereign Industry Development Fund investment last week, this is another way we’re getting on with helping reinforce Cairns’ role as a key regional maintenance centre for defence operations,” State Assistant Minister for Far North Queensland Bree James said.

“I have state repeatedly what an important and significant piece of infrastructure the common user facility will be for the growth and future security of Cairns: it will bring jobs, trades, and families to the Far North and a huge potential for expansion of our great city.

“We anticipate the creation of 4,600 jobs supported by the Cairns maritime industry.

“Those families will be able to work in Portsmith, build new homes in the southern corridor, and their children will be able to study further education at CQU or JCU.

“The businesses of Cairns have been calling out for the common user facility, and the Albanese Labor Government is proud to be able to deliver on its commitment,” Federal Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith said.

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Queensland Government – Media Statements; Ports North