The Hon Catherine King MP
The Cairns Common User Facility is a step closer after the Albanese and Crisafulli governments today opened registrations for expressions of interest from the private sector to co-invest in the facility’s delivery and operation.
The facility will strengthen regional economies by creating skilled jobs and building long-term infrastructure for Far North Queensland.
Led by Ports North on behalf of the Queensland Government and backed by joint investment from the Albanese and Crisafulli governments, the facility will significantly expand the region’s marine maintenance, repair and overhaul capability.
The facility responds to growing regional, national and international demand for maritime services, driven by increased activity across defence programs, commercial fleets and marine industries.
It is designed to support a wide range of vessels including defence and government fleets, commercial shipping, superyachts and specialist operators, reflecting the scale and complexity of maritime activity across Northern Australia and the Asia-Pacific.
Located within the established Cairns Marine Precinct, the facility will provide shared infrastructure for multiple operators, improving asset utilisation, reducing operational constraints and supporting more efficient maintenance services.
The decision to seek private sector investment follows a review by Ports North.
An upcoming industry briefing will be hosted by Ports North to provide further details on the opportunity including the market engagement process and co-investment approach.
Interested proponents are invited to register their interest in attending this industry briefing via: CMPenquiry@portsnorth.com.au
For further information, visit: www.portsnorth.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“The Albanese Government is investing in critical infrastructure to support the economic development of Northern Australia and grow our marine and maritime industries.
“A common user model allows industries to share infrastructure, lowering barriers to entry and supporting job creation and long-term economic development.
“This builds on the work the Albanese Government is doing across the maritime sector, including the establishment of the maritime strategic fleet, increased investment in maritime skills and training and the review of the Coastal Trading Act.”
Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg:
“We have consistently said that, along with the Commonwealth, we remain committed to the Cairns Common User Facility despite the cost blowouts, which disappointingly eventuated under the former state government.
“Today’s announcement is further evidence of our commitment to delivering this capability for Far North Queensland and is a reflection of the fact we know how important the marine industry is for Cairns’ employment and economic growth.”
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland Nita Green:
“The Albanese Government has been a strong advocate for this project since day one.
"We know the Cairns Marine Precinct is vital for this region, and our government is committed to its delivery.
“The project is important to Far North Queensland's future.
"That's why we have always backed this project and we continue to do that today."
Quotes attributable to State Assistant Minister for Far North Queensland Bree James:
“We have heard how important the common user facility is for the Cairns region, and we are getting on with delivering the project, just like we promised.
“Along with the Sovereign Industry Development Fund investment last week, this is another way we’re getting on with helping reinforce Cairns’ role as a key regional maintenance centre for defence operations.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith:
"I have stated repeatedly what an important and significant piece of infrastructure the common user facility will be for the growth and future security of Cairns: it will bring jobs, trades, and families to the Far North and a huge potential for expansion of our great city.
"We anticipate the creation of 4,600 jobs supported by the Cairns maritime industry.
"Those families will be able to work in Portsmith, build new homes in the southern corridor, and their children will be able to study further education at CQU or JCU.
"The businesses of Cairns have been calling out for the common user facility, and the Albanese Labor Government is proud to be able to deliver on its commitment."