The McGowan Government will invest more than $10 million into priority works at the Port of Esperance as part of the WA Recovery Plan, creating more than 100 local jobs during construction.
This investment will deliver priority works at the Esperance Port, stimulating the economy and creating opportunities for increased trade.
A $2 million investment into an additional container hardstand will free up berth space, reduce safety and operational risks, increase efficiency and meet future demand.
The $3.5 million demolition of the Berth 2 ship loader circuit will allow for the optimisation of available land on Berth 2 and maximise trade growth throughout the region.
A $3.2 million investment into a hardstand at Berth 2 and improvements to the stormwater system will facilitate the resumption of full capacity nickel trade and delivers superior environmental performance.
The high priority sealing of internal roads within the Port will be supported by $1.5 million in funding, and will reduce the impact of heavy machinery and will deliver dust control mitigations for the Port and broader community.
The works are part of a suite of priority infrastructure works at Western Australia's regional ports, including $11.6 million for upgrades at Geraldton Port and $15.5 million for the Turkey Point access bridge at Bunbury Port.
The McGowan Government is committed to rebuilding the State's economy and is investing in major projects to support WA's recovery from COVID-19.
As stated by Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"This a significant investment into Esperance, which will help drive ongoing trade through the region.
"The Esperance Port facilitates more than 11 million tonnes of trade every year, and has the opportunity to harness additional growth throughout the region.
"These priority projects will help the Port of Esperance realise its full potential, supporting the development of the Esperance Port Master Plan.
"Works are expected to create just over 100 jobs during construction, with priority given to local businesses and local workers to help stimulate the regional economy."
As stated by Agricultural Region MLC Darren West:
"The McGowan Government continues to steer WA safely through the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Our focus now turns to the WA Recovery Plan, which provides a clear investment strategy to bring our economy back to life.
"Investing in key works such as those at the Esperance Port not only provide job creation opportunities, but also encourages private investment across the region by increasing import and export capacity."
