PILBARA Ports has broken export tonnage records for the fifth year running.
The region recorded 758.3 million tonnes worth an estimated $173 billion for the 2023-2024 financial year.
This included 573.6 million tonnes of commodities from Port Hedland confirming its position as one of Australia’s most valuable ports.
A State Government media release announcing the record tonnage said investment in major projects will also see capacity expanded at Port Hedland and Dampier ports.
The release claims Commonwealth and State Government investment in major projects, such as Lumsden Point in the Port of Port Hedland and the Dampier Cargo Wharf in the Port of Dampier, are driving demand for regional jobs in the Pilbara, with 74% of Pilbara Ports contract spend remaining within Western Australia and almost 45% invested in Pilbara-based businesses.
Pilbara Ports exports around 80% of Australia’s Iron ore or 43% of the world’s iron ore.
The ports are also a major player in salt exports with 7.1 mllion tonnes passing through the ports of Port Hedland and Dampier in 2023-24, which equates to 51% of Australian salt production.
There were more than 7,700 safe vessel visits, equating to an average of 21 vessel visits each day across the four operational ports.
Ports Minister David Michael said the Pilbara is the economic powerhouse of the nation, and these impressive results are a clear example of that.
“The State Government continues to invest in infrastructure projects that fuel future prosperity and support regional jobs growth.
“It’s fantastic to see Pilbara Ports continuing to meet industry’s growing export needs, as strong economic conditions across the Pilbara increase demand for port services.”
