The Pilbara region has once again set a new benchmark in export performance, recording a remarkable 758.3 million tonnes of throughput for the 2023-24 financial year. This achievement marks the fifth consecutive year that Pilbara Ports has broken its own records, underscoring the region’s critical role in Australia’s economy and its impact on the global supply chain.
The Port of Port Hedland was a major contributor to this record, handling 573.6 million tonnes and reinforcing its position as one of Australia’s most valuable ports. The total value of the commodities exported through Pilbara Ports reached an estimated $173.2 billion, highlighting the immense economic significance of the region.
The continued success of Pilbara Ports is supported by significant investments from both the Commonwealth and State Governments. Major infrastructure projects, including developments at Lumsden Point in Port Hedland and the Dampier Cargo Wharf in Port Dampier, are set to expand capacity and meet the growing demands of the industry. These projects are also contributing to regional job creation, with 74 per cent of Pilbara Ports’ contract spend staying within Western Australia and nearly 45 per cent invested in local businesses in the Pilbara.
Pilbara Ports are pivotal in Australia’s iron ore trade, handling approximately 80 per cent of the national trade and 43 per cent of the global trade. The ports also play a crucial role in salt exports, with 7.1 million tonnes exported in the 2023-24 period, representing about 51 per cent of Australian salt production.
The strong financial results were achieved through more than 7,700 safe vessel visits, averaging 21 visits per day across four operational ports. This impressive operational efficiency highlights the effectiveness of Pilbara Ports in managing high-volume exports safely and reliably.
Ports Minister David Michael praised the Pilbara’s economic impact, stating, “The Pilbara is the economic powerhouse of the nation, and these impressive results are a clear example of that. The State Government continues to invest in infrastructure projects that fuel future prosperity and support regional jobs growth. It’s fantastic to see Pilbara Ports continuing to meet industry’s growing export needs, as strong economic conditions across the Pilbara increase demand for port services.”
Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel also commended the success of the ports, noting, “Communities in the Pilbara continue to benefit from the success of our ports, with many local businesses being involved in achieving this strong result. Our ports are gateways connecting the Pilbara to the global market, and I am proud of the significant impact we make on the world stage.”
The record-breaking performance of Pilbara Ports underscores the region’s vital role in both national and international markets, setting the stage for continued success and growth in the years to come.
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