Darwin Port expansion on schedule as new general cargo wharf takes shape

Construction of the new general cargo wharf at Darwin Port is progressing on schedule, with the main wharf deck poured and crane rail installation expected to begin within weeks on a project that will increase the Northern Territory's freight gateway capacity by 45 per cent when complete.

The $320 million expansion, funded jointly by the Commonwealth and the NT government, adds a 380-metre general cargo berth alongside the existing container and fuel berths, allowing Darwin to handle two large vessels simultaneously for the first time. New refrigerated container handling equipment will support the growth of NT food exports, particularly beef, prawns, and mangoes, to Asian markets through the port.

Ports Minister Kate Worden said the wharf expansion was fundamental to the NT's economic ambitions, particularly in the context of growing demand from South-East Asian trading partners for Northern Australia food and resources. "Darwin is four days closer to Singapore by sea than any other Australian capital. We are not using that advantage anywhere near enough," she said.

The expansion also includes a new hardstand area for bulk commodities and an upgraded container inspection facility meeting the requirements of the Department of Agriculture for increased export certification throughput. The capacity increase is expected to attract direct vessel services from carriers that currently bypass Darwin in favour of Brisbane or Fremantle for the South-East Asian routes.

The wharf is expected to be fully commissioned in the second half of next year, with the full commercial program available to shipping lines from the following scheduling cycle.

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