Geraldton Port Maximisation Project (PMaxP)

Mid West Ports is progressing strategic upgrade works at Geraldton Port to ensure we can continue to meet the needs of our customers and our community in the years to come.

The Port Maximisation Project (PMaxP) has been funded by the State Government and will build on our proud history to prepare the Geraldton Port for the future.

PMaxP will cater for emerging industries and sustainable increases in trade demand over the next decade, to deliver lasting economic benefits that will enable our region to thrive.

Community consultation

Throughout the delivery of PMaxP over the next four years, we will work with our community and stakeholders to share project information, identify ways we can reduce any potential impacts, and support strong community outcomes.

We value your input and encourage you to share your feedback through our project website, via email, and at our upcoming community information sessions.

Join one of our community information sessions to learn more about PMaxP and what it means for our community, speak to the PMaxP project team and share your thoughts and feedback.

To remain up to date on the latest project information, subscribe to our e-newsletter here.

For all project-related enquiries, please contact the PMaxP Team at [email protected]

 

What’s happening – August 2024

Progressing environmental approvals

The environmental approvals process is underway for PMaxP upgrade works for Berth 1, the new tug facility, and Berth 6. While not part of the PMaxP scope, environmental approvals will also assess the opportunities for future construction of Berth 8 / Berth 9 to support the activation of projects within the Oakajee Strategic Industrial Area.

In Q3 2024, Mid West Ports intends to refer these elements of the project to the relevant regulatory authorities for consideration of environmental impacts. This is the first step of the formal environmental approvals process.

A range of detailed terrestrial and marine investigations are currently underway to support our understanding of potential impacts. These investigations will ensure a thorough understanding of the project’s environmental impact and identify effective strategies to prevent, minimise, or manage these effects.

You can learn more about PMaxP, project timings and the environmental approval process below.

PMaxP element updates

Part IV Environmental Referral elements:

  • Construction of a new Berth 1: 85% design review is now complete. To be assessed as part of the Part IV Environmental Impact Assessment in Q4 2024.
  • Construction of a new tug facility and breakwater extension: 50% design review is now complete. To be assessed as part of the Part IV Environmental Impact Assessment in Q4 2024.
  • Future modifications and upgrades to the existing Berth 6: 100% design review being finalised. To be assessed as part of the Part IV Environmental Impact Assessment in Q4 2024.
  • Port West road upgrades: Currently in design development. To be assessed as part of the Part IV Environmental Impact Assessment in Q4 2024.
  • Demolition of the existing Berth 2 wharf deck: To be assessed as part of the Part IV Environmental Impact Assessment in Q4 2024.
  • Environmental studies and investigations:
    • Underwater noise, greenhouse gas and benthic modelling is close to complete.
    • Hydrodynamic plume modelling, landscape and visual impact assessment and sediment transport modelling (coastal processes) are well progressed. 
    • Noise modelling of construction and new infrastructure has recently commenced.
    • Marine water quality monitoring is an ongoing process with data available over a period of years.

Additional elements:

  • Lease 11 truck unloader: The Environmental Part V Works Approval has been granted and the construction package and supply of components are currently out for tender. Long-lead items, sheet pile, transformers, and mechanical equipment will be procured ahead of construction contract award. Construction is expected to commence Q4 2024.
  • Berth 5 and 6 fuel line modifications: Works onsite are expected to commence late Q3 2024. The fuel bunkering point at Berth 6 will be relocated further north, and Berth 5 will have fuel bunkering infrastructure reinstated to expand overall bunkering capacity within the Port.

Understanding PMaxP

Project overview:

The Geraldton Port Maximisation Project (PMaxP) is a major infrastructure project that will modernise and improve the Geraldton Port. The $350 million State Government funded project will be designed and constructed by Mid West Ports over a four-year period.

Geraldton Port will play an important role in enabling emerging industries, new customers with a diverse product mix, and significant growth forecasted within the Mid West region, over the next decade.

Through PMaxP, we are building a community asset that will proudly support our region for years to come. PMaxP features sustainable infrastructure upgrades designed to maximise the use of our current harbour. PMaxP will improve operational efficiency, ensure our berth facilities meet the needs of new products and customers, and create greater opportunities for cruise ships and future Port expansion.

Delivery of PMaxP will result in a range of local and regional benefits, including continued economic growth, local jobs and business opportunities, and trade diversification.

 

Key facts

  • $350 million in State Government funding approved to design and construct PMaxP.
  • Reliable, safe, and efficient infrastructure to maximise the use of our current harbour.
  • Four-year project execution, commencing 2023.
  • PMaxP is aligned with the 2020 Geraldton Port Master Plan.

To learn more about PMaxP, view our project resources available at the bottom of this page.

Project timeline:

PMaxP will progress in stages, aligned with required environmental investigations and approvals. The environmental approvals process is underway for PMaxP upgrade works for Berth 1, the new tug facility, and Berth 6.

While not a part of the PMaxP scope, environmental approvals will also assess the opportunities for future construction of Berth 8 / Berth 9, to support future renewable energy projects.

Throughout the life of the project, Mid West Ports will keep our community and stakeholders up to date about the construction stages, and how we'll be working to ensure any potential impacts are minimised.

Future tenders

Potential suppliers wishing to express interest in upcoming tenders for PMaxP are encouraged to fill out the online application form below.

For further enquiries, please contact the MWPA Procurement team on [email protected]

Go to Online Form

Resources

PMaxP Project Overview Brochure (August 2024) 

Frequently Asked Questions (*in development)

Project information and approvals (August 2024) (*in development)