A US$78 million investment will be made by the Western Australian Government included in the 2022-2023 State Budget, as part of the development of Lumsden Point, increasing Port of Port Hedland capacity, diversifying trade and creating local jobs.
According to a recent report by ACIL Allen, an independent economics, policy and strategy advisory firm, Lumsden Point’s growth would boost Western Australia’s Gross State Product by US$9.5 billion and create 460 jobs per year.
Lumsden Point will facilitate the export of battery metals, such as lithium and copper concentrates, the import of renewable energy infrastructure, including wind turbines and blades, and will support the rapid development of direct shipping services to Pilbara.
The projects that will follow will include the construction of seawalls for the formation of relaxation areas next to the future wharf, as well as a path for the connection of the wharf and laydown area to the proposed logistics hub.
At the same time, it will be possible to deepen the berth pocket and turning basin.
Lumsden Point is part of the recently completed Port of Port Hedland Development Plan Review, which was conducted to maximise the port’s export capacity, and the constructions described above are expected to begin later this year.
“This strategic development will create new export pathways, jobs and revenue streams that will benefit not only the WA community, but Australia as a whole. It will also serve to cement WA’s reputation as the engine room for the Australian economy,” said Ports Minister Rita Saffioti.