The Katter's Australian Party have made an election commitment to an Unlock the North priority, throwing their support behind the $240M Port Expansion project.
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 Outer Harbour Development is critical to ensuring Townsville and North Queensland can meet the growing demands of trade, renewable energy, and critical minerals exports.
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith welcomes today's announcement by the Australian Katter Party, affirming their commitment to the Townsville Port Expansion Project. This is a significant and positive step for North Queensland.
"Townsville North Queensland contributes more than $22 billion to Queensland’s economy annually. It’s only fair that this wealth is reinvested into our region to fuel sustained growth and opportunity," Ms Brumme-Smith said.
"This $240 million investment will deliver two additional common-user berths and upgraded infrastructure to meet the increasing demand in the mining, agricultural, and renewable energy sectors and cement North Queensland’s position as a global trade hub."
"The Port Expansion is essential to the prosperity of this region."
"We call on all political parties to take meaningful action and commit to the future of North Queensland. By investing in projects like this, we can drive economic growth, improve the quality of life for our communities, and showcase our region’s capability and ambition to lead in the industries the world needs."
Hinchinbrook MP and KAP deputy leader Nick Dametto 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."
KAP candidate for Townsville Margie Ryder further emphasised the role of the Port of Townsville.
“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.”
