A CALL for submissions has been issued for the Port of Brisbane Channel Enhancement project environmental impact statement draft terms of reference (TOR).
Prepared by the Queensland Coordinator-General, the draft TOR sets out points to be studied within the EIS, with submissions closing Monday 26 May.
Port of Brisbane proposes to enhance sections of the existing shipping channel, with an estimated investment value of more than $3.5 billion over a period of 20 to 25 years.
Port chief executive, Neil Stephens welcomed the release of the draft TOR, noting that the proposed project aimed to contribute to greater port efficiency, reduced vessel emissions while meeting the needs of global shipping.
“As Queensland’s largest multi-cargo port, we remain deeply committed to investing in sustainable development which supports the significant growth of the southeast Queensland population as well as the expansion of the Queensland economy,” Mr Stephens said.
“The EIS process will involve detailed reviews, scientific environmental studies, investigations of dredge material reuse and placement as well as extensive community consultation.”
The project is to include potential deepening and widening of the existing navigational channels and enhancement of the existing East Knoll Bypass Channel as well as minor re-alignments.
The proposed program of work requires approvals from both the Queensland and Commonwealth governments.
The draft TOR can be viewed online at www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/portofbrisbane
The proposed project involves dredging about 96.5 million cubic metres of material to widen, deepen and realign the existing shipping channel.
The project also involves the reuse and disposal of the dredged material.
The Coordinator-General declared the project a ‘coordinated project’ under the State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971, requiring an environmental impact statement.
Port of Brisbane is a significant economic asset, handling about $72bn in international trade during the 2024 financial year.