Queensland Government: Input Invited for Priority Ports Future

Queenslanders will have a hand in shaping the future of the state’s priority bulk commodity ports and protecting the Great Barrier Reef.

State Development Minister, Dr Anthony Lynham, announced at Gladstone’s Community Cabinet today that the draft guideline for priority port master planning was now open for public comment.

“The release of the draft guideline for public comment today is another important step forward in the master planning process for Gladstone, Abbot Point, Townsville and Hay Point/Mackay priority ports,” Dr Lynham said.

“This is another milestone towards master planning our ports to help them attract new business and industry and generate jobs.

“Masterplans will guide the future development of priority ports and their surrounding land and marine areas, while protecting our iconic Reef.”

Port master planning will help the Queensland Government:

• concentrate development in priority ports leading to more effective management of port development in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area;
• efficiently use existing port and supply chain infrastructure;
• identify and protect land and infrastructure critical to the effective operation and future expansion of priority ports;
• facilitate economic development and job creation in regional areas.

It also spells out the process that government will follow when it works with port authorities and stakeholders to put together a master plan.

The final guideline, incorporating public input, should be published by mid-2016.

Meanwhile in Gladstone, the master planning process passed another milestone with formal notice going to the Port Authority and Gladstone Regional Council to officially commence the process under the legislation.

“Draft port master planning documentation for Gladstone is being developed and is expected to be out for public comment mid-year,” Dr Lynham said.

Master planning will commence for Abbot Point and Townsville this year and Hay Point/Mackay in 2017.