Burnie Port Project to Help Grow Tasmania’s Economy, Create Jobs

The $12 million Burnie Port Optimisation Project, set to start within weeks, will be a major boost to Tasmania’s economy, helping to create jobs across the State.

Managed by TasPorts, which is also contributing $3 million, the project will receive $4 million and $2 million from the Australian and Tasmanian governments respectively, $2 million from Toll and the remaining $1 million from TasRail.

Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure Rene Hidding said the project was a great example of governments and industry working together to deliver improved transport infrastructure.

“The Burnie port is of key strategic importance to Tasmania’s freight system, and this project will increase its capacity and productivity,” Mr Hidding said.

“A more efficient, integrated freight system will help to grow our economy and create more jobs across industry.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss confirmed the Australian Government’s contribution to the project.

Representing Mr Truss, Federal Member for Braddon Brett Whiteley said it was a win-win for the City of Burnie, with an end to shunting along the popular West Beach foreshore.

“This will both improve the efficiency of operations at Tasmania’s premier container port and the safety and amenity of West Beach,” Mr Whiteley said.

“While the local community has long understood the need for trains to back up outside the port and along the beach, a solution that avoids this and improves, rather than detracts, from port operations will be most welcomed.”
Rene Hidding, Minister for Infrastructure Brett Whiteley, Federal Member for Braddon