A landmark Westport marine science program has been completed, providing vital data to guide the sustainable design and environmental management of Western Australia’s new container port in Kwinana.
The three-year, $13.5 million research partnership, led by the Western Australian Marine Science Institution (WAMSI), involved 150 independent scientists across more than 30 projects.
The findings are already informing how the Cook Government balances port development with the protection of Cockburn Sound’s fragile ecosystem.
Science shaping sustainable port planning
The Westport Marine Science Program examined nine research themes, from benthic habitats and water quality to hydrodynamics, fisheries and apex species such as snapper and dolphins.
These insights have directly influenced the design of the future port, prompting a one-kilometre southern shift to avoid seagrass beds and the adoption of an open breakwater structure to protect local currents that support marine life.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti says the research demonstrates how early science investment leads to better outcomes.
“By investing in science early, well ahead of the Westport business case, we’ve been able to make informed decisions that avoid and minimise environmental impacts,” she says.
“This program shows how science can shape better planning outcomes for infrastructure that will support our economy for the next century.”
Informing restoration and long-term environmental management
The data gathered through the WAMSI program underpins a new ecosystem model for Cockburn Sound, designed to predict impacts, optimise restoration and guide construction and management practices.
The model supports a long-term seagrass restoration initiative and other resilience-building projects, such as artificial reefs and community-led habitat programs.
Saffioti says the research sets a new benchmark for transparency and collaboration.
“Westport is doing the heavy lifting in developing the tools and data to support cumulative impact forecasting that ensures regulators and governments can confidently manage Cockburn Sound,” she says.
“This is about balancing economic, environmental, fisheries and recreational outcomes for generations to come.”
A foundation for responsible development
The findings, which underwent independent peer review, are being published progressively on the WAMSI website.
They will feed into Westport’s environmental impact assessment and approvals process, with the full environmental review document to be released for public comment in 2026.
“This comprehensive science program was delivered not by consultants but by independent and expert scientists from WAMSI, universities, Commonwealth research agencies and fisheries,” Saffioti says.
“Their work has advanced marine science in WA and will continue to guide us as we plan for a resilient and environmentally responsible future.”