WESTERN Australia’s proposed Westport container terminal has called for expressions of interest to join a terminal operator operations consultation group.
In its latest newsletter Westport said it was seeking experienced container terminal operators to join the group to share expertise and comment on draft terminal designs for WA’s future container port.
“The terminal operator consultation group will operate during the definition phase of the Westport Program and will conclude before the terminal operator procurement process,” the newsletter said.
“The group will play a key role in the Westport Program’s definition phase by providing feedback on terminal designs to reduce risks, improve reliability, and support cost-effective delivery."
Its functions include:
Giving prospective terminal operators equitable, confidential opportunities to comment on aspects related to designs.
Supporting a competitive procurement process through Westport’s reference design approach.
Promoting transparent, constructive engagement between stakeholders and operators to inform safe, efficient, and commercially viable designs.
Ensuring diverse operator perspectives are considered, including varying scales and service types.
Facilitating iterative design through timely, informed feedback at key milestones.
Encouraging input on global best practices, emerging technologies, and innovative design approaches.
Application process members will be selected through a formal application process, with each organisation to nominate up to two representatives.
“The selection panel has final discretion in membership. Applicants must meet these essential criteria:
The organisation has current experience in container terminal operations.
The organisation has knowledge of relevant Australian laws and standards.
The organisation has an ethical reputation and can demonstrate alignment to Australian government policies and objectives.
The organisation may tender to operate the future Westport container terminal in Kwinana.
The newsletter said the first meeting of the group will be held online or in person, most likely in May 2026 with subsequent meetings scheduled by the chair.
“Details of the engagement process and terms will be discussed and agreed with accepted consultation group participants and will involve direct one-on-one consultation.
“Note participation is consultation only and does not form part of the terminal operator procurement process. Participation in the consultation group will not have any bearing on any future procurement process for terminal operators for the future container terminal in Kwinana.”
Expressions of Interest should be emailed with a capability statement of not more than two A4 pages, addressing the essential criteria above to enquiries@westport.wa.gov.au.