The Australian Government has given the green light for work to continue on efforts to expand the activities that can be undertaken at the Port of Broome, Western Australia.
This includes working with border agencies on the requirements to secure expanded First Point of Entry (FPOE) status for the Port of Broome.
This would allow more cargo to be directly imported into Broome's port, supporting local industries to bring in materials and bolstering local trade capacity.
It could also potentially support cruise ships to travel directly to Broome from overseas destinations, delivering significant benefits to the town's economy and surrounding Kimberley region.
The Western Australian Government has welcomed the Australian Government's decision, which means Kimberley Ports Authority's (KPA) application for expanded FPOE status has crossed its first hurdle.
Other agencies including Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry will now work with KPA on the design and development of essential security and biosecurity infrastructure and a resourcing plan to facilitate international vessels and cargo arriving in Broome.
Quotes As put by Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"The Australian Government is pleased to announce our support for expanding import capability at the Port of Broome, which will unlock huge potential for the region's industries and economy - including in clean energy and green fuels.
"This is an important step for making it possible to import more cargo directly into Broome, reducing the need to rely on expensive road transport from distant ports such as Fremantle.
"Cutting down on road transport will also reduce the carbon footprint of local business and industry, making it a win for the region's beautiful natural environment as well."
Quotes attributed to Federal Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Murray Watt:
"Our port infrastructure is a key part of our international supply chains, supporting our economic growth and opportunities for our communities.
"My department will now work with the Kimberley Ports Authority to ensure it has the infrastructure and procedures in place to effectively manage the biosecurity risks associated with the proposed expansion. The FPOE process enables us to be assured the necessary arrangements are in place."
Quotes attributed to WA Ports Minister David Michael:
"While there is still some way to go, this decision signals the green light for the project and we hope this means that the process can now speed up.
"I'd like to thank and congratulate KPA and the broader Kimberley business community for promoting this project with the Australian Government over the past two years.
"I now look forward to working with my Australian Government colleagues to build on this momentum when I visit Canberra next month as part of the WA Government's push for a stronger working relationship."
Quotes attributed to WA Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Expanded border services for the Port of Broome would have a major positive impact in Broome and the surrounding Kimberley region.
"The ability for cruise ships to come directly to Broome from overseas in the future would bring more visitors to Broome and Western Australia - directly supporting our critical tourism industry."
Quotes attributed to Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:
"If we can boost import capacity at the Port of Broome, it will cut transport costs significantly and reduce the time it takes to have goods delivered to the Kimberley."
