Newsroom

October 11, 2024

Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) have thrown their full support behind Townsville Enterprise Limited’s (TEL) push for the Townsville Port Expansion Project as part of their "Unlocking the North" election priorities.

The expansion, which will include the construction of two common-user berths, seawalls, and trunk infrastructure, will ensure the port can meet the growing demand for larger vessels and advanced supply chain capabilities.

Without this investment, there is a risk of trade demand outstripping the port’s capacity, which could delay critical minerals and renewable energy exports. The $690 million Outer Harbour Development is critical to ensuring Townsville and North Queensland can meet the growing demands of trade, renewable energy, and critical minerals exports.

Nick Dametto MP emphasised that the port expansion is essential to the economic future of the North, aligning with KAP’s commitment to unlocking new opportunities for the region and developing nation building infrastructure across the North.

“The Townsville Port is not just a gateway for North Queensland—it’s a gateway for Australia. Expanding the port’s capacity will unlock over $500 billion in critical minerals deposits and will ensure North Queensland remains a leader in Australia’s economic future,” Mr. Dametto said.

“By investing in the Outer Harbour Development, we are not just increasing the region’s trade capacity; we’re enabling the $36 billion pipeline of Commonwealth, State, and private investments that will power the economic growth of North and North West Queensland.

“We strongly support projects such as this proposed by TEL because a key priority for the KAP is to build generational infrastructure that will last lifetimes. Our future Queensland Governments must move beyond their short-sighted, four-year plans and start building for what our country needs for decades to come.”

Margie Ryder, KAP’s candidate for Townsville, highlighted the long-term benefits for the region and its residents.

“Townsville’s port handles over 30 commodities, supports Defence and cruise facilities, and has the potential to create thousands of jobs,” Ms Ryder said.

“This expansion will be a game changer for local industries—whether it’s mining, renewable energy, or manufacturing. It’s about creating secure, high-paying jobs and strengthening the local economy for generations to come.”

Photo: Michael Pugh (KAP for Mundingburra), Margie Ryder (KAP for Townsville), TEL CEO Claudie Brumme-Smith, Hinchinbrook MP and KAP Deputy Leader Nick Dametto and Reuben Richardson (KAP for Thuringowa).