Western Australia’s government has moved to make it impossible for the State to sell off its port assets in the Pilbara.
The government will introduce legislation into WA Parliament that will supersede an Act passed by the former Liberal-National government in 2016 that allowed for the sale of the Utah Point Bulk Handling Facility to private owners.
The Utah Point Bulk Handling Facility delivers common user ship-loading services and opportunities for smaller mining operators to access export opportunities out of the Pilbara.
WA Treasurer Rita Saffioti says Labor was never in favour of selling the state assets.
“We did not support and will never support the sale of the Utah Point Bulk Handling Facility,” Saffioti says.
“The Act was rushed and poorly written, failing to mention Utah Point by name, meaning that, by rights, the Act granted blanket powers to sell any and all assets of Pilbara Ports.
“The introduction of this Bill will ensure we keep this critical piece of infrastructure in State hands, and future private sector investment and job creation is not hampered.”
WA Ports Minister Stephen Dawson says Utah Point currently handles more than 20 million tonnes per year, generating significant revenue for the State.
He says keeping the port in State hands will help to maximise the government’s ability to provide jobs and support for businesses and regional communities around Port Hedland.
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