- $200m private investment to modernise marine infrastructure at the Port of Broome
- Development to include innovative floating wharf facility
- The project is estimated to create 260 WA jobs during construction, and sustain 1650 jobs in operation
A $200 million private investment in new port infrastructure at the Port of Broome, is set to modernise maritime logistics, and drive significant regional development opportunities.
Western Australian-based Kimberley Marine Support Base Pty Ltd (KMSB) has issued formal notification to the Kimberley Ports Authority (KPA) that it plans to begin development of the new multi-user facility in late 2023.
The development is poised to reshape the trade landscape, enhance regional development, and enhance the Port of Broome as a thriving maritime hub.
The development is fully privately funded, and is supported by the Cook Government and KPA.
Over time, it will also open avenues for diversification, tourism growth, and access to Asian markets for regional products.
The facility has been designed to complement the Port of Broome's existing infrastructure, by adding additional capacity to service the emerging needs of new developments in the Kimberley.
The facility's low-impact design leverages naturally occurring deep waters, to create a berth pocket of at least 17-meters deep at low tide, eliminating the need for dredging.
It will incorporate a 9900sqm floating wharf, with heavy lift capability, connected to a landside abutment, via a wide dual-directional causeway.
The innovative floating wharf design, will address the significant operational challenges associated with Broome's large tide variations, ultimately improving the Port's ability to facilitate trade in a safe, efficient and cost-effective way.
The project's economic impact is substantial, with an estimated 260 Western Australian jobs supported during the construction phase, and a significant increase in permanent employment opportunities.
During operations, the trade enhancements brought about by the project will support an estimated 1650 Western Australian jobs annually.
WA company Total AMS Pty Ltd has been appointed as the lead contractor to undertake the works, with completion scheduled for early 2025.
As stated by Ports Minister David Michael:
"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."
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:
"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 Yawuru People to ensure strong outcomes for Indigenous employment and economic empowerment, through the construction and operation of the facility."
