A NEW deepwater maritime complex at Exmouth in Western Australia’s mid-west is a step closer to reality with the Environmental Protection Authority release of the Environmental Review Document (ERD) for the proposed Gascoyne Gateway Marine Complex.
The release marks the opening of a 12‑week public comment period for the multi‑user port planned 10 kilometres south of Exmouth.
Public submissions are open from 24 August to 16 November 2026, with feedback to be lodged through the EPA’s Consultation Hub. The ERD forms the centrepiece of a Public Environmental Review, the highest level of assessment under the Environmental Protection Act 1986.
Proposed by Gascoyne Gateway Limited, the project is a privately funded deep‑water marine facility incorporating a wharf, renewable‑energy hub, desalination plant, fuel storage, and associated onshore infrastructure. The proponent says the development is intended to support sustainable economic growth, national resilience, and emerging industries in the Gascoyne region.
“We welcome the opening of the public comment period for this strategically important project,” CEO Daniel Jackson said. “The Gascoyne Gateway Marine Complex has been designed as sustainable and regenerative infrastructure, to diversify and service the long‑term needs of the Exmouth community and the wider Gascoyne region.”
The ERD draws on six years of environmental survey work, technical modelling and consultation with community groups, traditional owners, industry and government agencies. Environmental factors assessed include benthic communities and habitats, marine fauna, marine environmental quality, coastal processes, flora and vegetation, terrestrial and subterranean fauna, inland waters, and social surroundings.
The EPA is to consider all submissions before making a recommendation to the Minister for Environment. Construction cannot begin until all relevant environmental approvals are granted.