$13.5 million allocated for new Port Hedland seafarers centre

More than $13 million has been allocated by the State Government to build a seafarers centre in Port Hedland to cater for the tens of thousands of seafarers who bring ships into the town’s bustling port every year. The investment builds on the initial contribution of $2 million in 2021 for the purchase of the land for the facility through Pilbara Ports, which will oversee the development of the project and ensure it is adequately maintained. The $13.5 million grant will initially be funded as part of the upcoming State Budget and will be recovered from the industry via shipping charges and agreed contributions from port users. More than 3000 vessels visited the port of Port Hedland in 2022-23, transporting 566.5 million tonnes of cargo. The new facility will support seafarers on shore leave and include amenities such as accommodation, recreational spaces, dining facilities and a small chapel. Ports Minister David Michael said seafarers played an important role in facilitating the trade of iron ore and other commodities from the port of Port Hedland, typically spending between six to 12 months at sea at a time. “By providing some of the comforts of home at this new facility, we are supporting the welfare of thousands of seafarers who visit the port each year,” he said. “The Cook Government welcomes the industry contribution from BHP, Fortescue, Roy Hill, Mineral Resources and Atlas that will help make this project possible. “I’m proud Pilbara Ports can plan such a key role in delivering a project that will be so important for so many international seafarers, the Port Hedland community and the broader WA economy.” The project is expected to also stimulate economic development and enhance community amenities in the West End of Port Hedland. “The original facility was built by volunteers in the 1960s and has done a fantastic job of supporting the hundreds of thousands of seafarers that visit Port Hedland,” Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel said. “I’m pleased to see projects like this one in the region improving the amenity of Port Hedland in line with other global ports of this scale.” Procurement processes and final design will be held this year and construction is expected to start in 2025.