The Queensland Government will establish new port authorities as part of its changes to the structure of the State's ports
The Queensland Government intends on introducing sweeping changes to the structure of its ports operations to increase export efficiency and capacity.
Treasurer Andrew Fraser wants to transfer the management of Port of Lucinda from Brisbane to the Townsville Ports Corporation and establish two new ports corporations in Mackay and Cairns.
Citing a review into Queensland’s ports, Fraser says the move is in the best interests of regional ports because they will be overseen by regional corporations.
He has ignored other proposals, saying the Government knows best how to ensure the ports remain economically viable as well as generators of employment and trade growth.
“This is about strengthening the future of northern ports sector and focussing on growth and exports,” Fraser says.
“That is why we feel the best people to manage the ports are those who know the area best.”
The new in Mackay and Cairns follow from the Government’s plan to divest itself of the regions’ airports.
“Cairns Port Authority will become known as the Far North Queensland Ports Corporation and assume responsibility for the ports of the Cape and Mourilyan,” Fraser says.
“Mackay Port Authority will become part of a new North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation which will include Weipa, Hay Point and Abbot Point.”
The North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation will, however, retain a Brisbane office to reflect its extensive customer base
Fraser says the establishment of the two new entities will happen over a five-year period as a transition is made from the former Ports Corporation of Queensland structure.
The corporation currently oversees the burgeoning Abbot Point Coal Terminal