New Port of Broome multi-user facility to support 260 construction jobs

A new multi-user facility at the Port of Broome is scheduled to begin construction in late 2023, which will help modernise maritime logistics in this Western Australian port. 

Kimberley Marine Support Base Pty Ltd (KMSB) has issued a formal notification to the Kimberley Ports Authority (KPA) to commence the development of the $200 million multi-user facility. 

The project is fully privately funded by KMSB and is supported by the Western Australian Government as well as KPA. 

“The Kimberley Marine Support Base facility signifies a momentous leap toward strengthening our regional infrastructure and enhancing trade pathways. 

“This project aligns with the Cook Government’s commitment to fostering economic growth, ensuring safe operations at our Ports, and boosting connectivity for our communities. 

“I welcome this significant investment by the proponents of the facility, as a vote of confidence in the Kimberley economy,” Ports Minister David Michael said. 

The proposed multi-user facility is anticipated to reshape the trade landscape, enhance regional development, and enhance the Port of Broome as a thriving maritime hub. In addition, it will have future opportunities for diversification, tourism growth, and access to Asian markets for regional products. 

The facility will complement the Port’s existing infrastructure through the delivery of additional capacity to service the emerging needs of new development in the Kimberley region. 

The multi-user facility will have a low-impact design that leverages naturally occurring deep waters in creating a berth pocket at least 17 metres deep at low tide – eliminating the need for dredging. 

The facility will incorporate a 9,900-SQM floating wharf that has a heavy lift capability, connected to a landside abutment via a wide dual-directional causeway. 

Initial key design elements of the project include: 

• 360-metre-long bi-directional causeway 
• 85-metre linkspan bridge 
• Two restraint structures 
• 50 x 165 metre floating wharf platform 
• Breasting and mooring dolphin arrangements 
• 2,000-SQM abutment 
• 700-tonne crane capacity 

The floating wharf is an innovative design that will address the significant operational challenges associated with the region’s large tide variations. Ultimately, this design will improve the Port of Broome’s ability to facilitate trade in a safe, efficient and cost-effective way. 

The multi-million-dollar project is expected to deliver substantial economic benefits through jobs, with an estimated 260 Western Australian jobs to be supported during its construction phase and about 1,650 local jobs annually once the facility is operational. 

“This development will bring immediate and long-term benefits in the form of jobs, economic activity, and additional trade capacity for Broome. 

“I’m also encouraged that the proponents have engaged with the local Yarwun People to ensure strong outcomes for Indigenous employment and economic empowerment, through the construction and operation of the facility,” Kimberley MLA Divina D’Anna said. 

Construction of the new multi-user facility will be undertaken by Western Australia-based Total AMS Pty Ltd. 

The new Port of Broome multi-user facility is due to be completed in early 2025. 

Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Kimberley Marine Support Base; ABC News; Kimberley Ports Authority