THE PORT of Darwin has released its 30-year vision for development of the northern gateway to Asia.
The Master Plan, designed to work around industry demand includes the potential for an increase in container handling capacity to 300,000teu, around 12.5 times current throughput.
It also allows for an increase in bulk material export capacity to 13.5Mtpa, around 40 times current throughput and around four times previous record levels.
Increased storage is available from a quadrupling of the available laydown and hardstand capacity at East Arm Wharf, an increase in undercover bulk storage capacity of around 18 times and an increase in vehicle import volumes of around 7.5 times.
Darwin Port CEO Peter Dummett said the Master Plan also encompasses Darwin Port’s Fort Hill Wharf facility.
“We expect continued strong growth in the cruise sector and, if required to support this industry, we anticipate that the existing Fort Hill Wharf could be extended by around 60 metres, providing the ability to berth future vessels of up to 380 metres in length, whilst also providing greater flexibility to accommodate multiple smaller vessels,” Mr Dummett said.
“The more frequent accommodation of multiple vessels at Fort Hill will in turn trigger the potential for cruise terminal expansions and enhancements, improving the visitor arrival experience while also meeting our regulatory obligations surrounding customs and biosecurity,” he said.
“This Master Plan is not the beginning, but a pivotal next step in a journey already in motion.
“It reflects the trust placed in us by our stakeholders, our commitment to continuous improvement, and our ambition to shape a future-ready port that delivers value far beyond its boundaries,” he said.
“We have listened to our partners across government, industry, and the community. Their input has guided the phasing strategy, validated our forecasts, and reinforced confidence in our long-term direction.
“From cruise and defence operations to multimodal expansions that future-proof our container, dry bulk and rail throughput capacity, every part of this Master Plan is shaped by those who rely on the port,” said Mr Dummett.