WA Port Overhaul Set to Strengthen Trade Backbone

Highlights

• $204M earmarked for WA port infrastructure in 2025–26 Budget
• Major upgrade planned for Fremantle ahead of Kwinana shift
• Regional ports receive targeted funding to enhance logistics

The Western Australian Government has committed $204 million in the 2025–26 State Budget to elevate port infrastructure across key trade routes in the state. This significant investment aims to modernise maritime logistics, enhance freight capacity, and improve supply chain resilience—vital components for supporting sectors that underpin the ASX200 index, including mining, agriculture, and exports.

Fremantle: Preparing for a Strategic Future

At the centre of this initiative is the Port of Fremantle, which will receive $88 million. This funding will extend the operational life of the Inner Harbour’s aging wharves, some of which date back over a century. These updates are vital as Fremantle prepares for the eventual shift of container trade operations to Kwinana, a move expected to reshape Western Australia’s freight landscape.

To further strengthen Fremantle’s role in maritime logistics, $20.3 million will be used to build a new tugboat facility at J-Berth on Victoria Quay. This will support port operations by providing infrastructure for tug fleets that assist in the safe navigation of shipping traffic.

Regional Ports See Targeted Enhancements

Ports across regional WA are also set to benefit:

• Port Hedland will receive $35 million to resurface Utah Point Ring Road, improving access and reliability for one of the world’s busiest bulk export hubs.
  
  
• Port of Wyndham has been allocated $14 million for First Point of Entry biosecurity infrastructure, enhancing the region’s capacity to support agricultural and resource projects in the East Kimberley.
  
  
• Port of Geraldton will see $3.5 million invested in planning and design for new Berths 8-9, which will support growth in exports and logistics.

These investments aim to bolster trade and development prospects for key companies operating in the state’s ports, such as Fortescue Metals Group (ASX:FMG), BHP Group (ASX:BHP), and Mineral Resources (ASX:MIN).

Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience

An additional $5 million will be directed toward creating a new Supply Chain Resilience Fund. This initiative complements federal efforts to boost maritime logistics through the Maritime Strategic Fleet project. By fostering a more robust domestic shipping capacity, the state seeks to mitigate risks associated with global supply chain disruptions.

These port upgrades are strategically aligned with sectors tracked on the ASX200, reinforcing the importance of infrastructure investment in sustaining Australia’s economic growth.