- The Cairns Common User Facility takes a major step with private sector co-investment sought for delivery and operation
- Private sector co-investment will support existing joint investment of $387 million from the Albanese and Crisafulli Government.
- The joint investment in the Cairns Common User Facility will expand FNQ's marine maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities.
The Cairns Common User Facility is a step closer after the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments have today opened registrations for Expressions of Interest from the private sector to co-invest in the facility's delivery and operation.
The facility will strengthen regional economies by creating skilled jobs and building long-term infrastructure for Far North Queensland.
Led by Ports North, on behalf of the Queensland Government, and backed by joint investment from the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments, the facility will significantly expand the region's marine maintenance, repair and overhaul capability.
The facility responds to growing regional, national and international demand for maritime services, driven by increased activity across defence programs, commercial fleets and marine industries.
It is designed to support a wide range of vessels including defence and government fleets, commercial shipping, superyachts and specialist operators, reflecting the scale and complexity of maritime activity across Northern Australia and the Asia-Pacific.
Located within the established Cairns Marine Precinct, the facility will provide shared infrastructure for multiple operators, improving asset utilisation, reducing operational constraints and supporting more efficient maintenance services.
The decision to seek private sector co-investment follows a comprehensive review by Ports North.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the Albanese Government was investing in FNQ's development.
"The Albanese Government is investing in critical infrastructure to support the economic development of Northern Australia," Minister King said.
"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."
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the project would reinforce Cairns' role as a key northern hub.
"We have consistently said that, along with the Commonwealth, we remain committed to the Cairns Common User Facility despite the cost blowouts, which disappointingly eventuated under the former State Government," Minister Mickelberg said.
"Today's announcement is further evidence of our commitment to delivering this capability for Far North Queensland and is reflection of the fact we know how important the marine industry is for Cairns' employment and economic growth."
Federal Assistant Minister for Northern Australia, Tourism, and Pacific Island Affairs Nita Green said the Albanese Government had been a strong advocate for the Common User Facility.
"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," Assistant Minister Green said.
"The project is important to Far North Queensland future. That's why we have always backed this project, and we continue to do that today."
Queensland Assistant Minister for Far North Queensland Bree James said the Crisafulli Government had listened to the Cairns Community and was delivering for the region.
"We know how important the Common User Facility is for the Cairns region, and we are getting on with delivering the project, just like we promised," Ms James said.
"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."
Federal Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith said the CUF was significant for the growth of Cairns.
"I have stated 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," Mr Smith said.
"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."
