Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that three ports in northern Western Australia will have First Port of Entry Status.
Applications for expanded border services at Wyndham, Ashburton and Dampier have been given the green light by the Albanese Government, allowing goods subject to biosecurity and other controls to land here and enter Australia.
“This will allow for more direct international shipping, meaning businesses and industries in the north will be able to import and export goods closer to their operations, without having to transit through ports further way,” a Prime Ministerial statement says, adding that the move will benefit businesses and communities in the East Kimberley and Pilbara regions.
“We always look for ways to support businesses and communities – which is why the changes to First Port of Entry will make a huge difference across the East Kimberley and Pilbara, shoring up local jobs and supply chains,” Mr Albanese said.
The Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King commented that: “enhanced border services at the ports of Wyndham, Ashburton and Dampier, will make a significant difference to local industry and businesses, saving businesses millions in transport costs and time. With the number of vessels to pass through the Port of Wyndham each year expected to double by 2033, this decision backs in critical Western Australian businesses and supports communities in the north east of the state. This builds on other work including our $115 million commitment towards upgrades to common user port infrastructure at the Port of Dampier”.
