A COMMON user facility at Cairns designed to support vessels, including defence and government fleets, commercial shipping, superyachts and specialist operators is a step closer following a $387 million investment from Queensland and federal governments.
A co-investment with private investors, the Cairns Common User Facility will expand Far North Queensland’s marine maintenance, repair and overhaul capabilities.
The Albanese and Crisafulli governments have opened registrations for expressions of interest from the private sector to co-invest in the facility’s delivery and operation.
Led by Ports North, a state and federal media release said the facility responds to growing regional, national and international demand for maritime services, driven by increased activity across defence programs, commercial fleets and marine industries.
“Located within the established Cairns Marine Precinct, the facility will provide shared infrastructure for multiple operators, improving asset utilisation, reducing operational constraints and supporting more efficient maintenance services,” the release said..
The decision to seek private sector co-investment follows a comprehensive review by Ports North.
Federal transport minister Catherine King said the federal government was investing in critical infrastructure to support the economic development of Northern Australia.
“A common-user model allows industries to share infrastructure, lowering barriers to entry and supporting job creation and long-term economic development,” Ms King said.
“This builds on the work the Albanese Government is doing across the maritime sector, including the establishment of the Maritime Strategic Fleet, increased investment in maritime skills and training and the review of the Coastal Trading Act.”
Queensland transport minister, Brent Mickelberg said the project would reinforce Cairns’ role as a key northern hub.
“We have consistently said that, along with the commonwealth, we remain committed to the Cairns Common User Facility despite the cost blowouts, which disappointingly eventuated under the former state government,” Mir Mickelberg said.
“Today’s announcement is further evidence of our commitment to delivering this capability for Far North Queensland and is reflection of the fact we know how important the marine industry is for Cairns’ employment and economic growth.”
Federal Assistant Minister for Northern Australia, Tourism, and Pacific Island Affairs Nita Green said the Albanese Government had been a strong advocate for the Common User Facility.
“The Albanese Government has been a strong advocate for this project since day one. We know the Cairns Marine Precinct is vital for this region, and our Government is committed to its delivery,” Assistant Minister Green said.
“The project is important to Far North Queensland future. That's why we have always backed this project, and we continue to do that today."
Queensland Assistant Minister for Far North Queensland Bree James said the Crisafulli Government had listened to the Cairns Community and was delivering for the region.
“We know how important the Common User Facility is for the Cairns region, and we are getting on with delivering the project, just like we promised,” Ms James said.
“Along with the Sovereign Industry Development Fund investment last week, this is another way we’re getting on with helping reinforce Cairns’ role as a key regional maintenance centre for defence operations.”
Federal member for Leichhardt, Matt Smith, said he anticipated the facility would create 4600 jobs supported by the Cairns maritime industry.
“Those families will be able to work in Portsmith, build new homes in the Southern Corridor, and their children will be able to study further education at CQU or JCU,” Mr Smith said.
An upcoming industry briefing will be hosted by Ports North to provide further details on the opportunity including the market engagement process and co-investment approach.