Lumsden Point development
A catalyst for the Pilbara’s economic future
In the vast expanse of WA’s Pilbara region, a transformative development is underway that promises to redefine the area’s economic and environmental landscape – the Lumsden Point development at the Port of Port Hedland.
Because it’s not just an infrastructure project. It’s a strategic initiative poised to propel the Pilbara into a new era of diversified trade and sustainable growth.
A strategic investment
The Federal Government has committed a substantial $565m towards common-user port upgrades in the Pilbara, with $450m specifically allocated to the development of new multi-user facilities and berths at Lumsden Point. This investment is complemented by the WA Government’s contribution of $96.6m, underscoring a unified vision for the region’s advancements.
In a December 2024 media statement, Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the Federal Government had partnered with the WA Government to ensure the infrastructure was going to be built.
“Our Government’s investment in common-user port upgrades in the Pilbara will help unlock trade and investment opportunities and support a future made in Australia,” she said.
“Investing in this great infrastructure will open doors and opportunities for businesses and communities, specifically in Port Hedland and the north-west coast of WA.”
Infrastructure enhancements
The funding is earmarked for the construction of two land-backed wharves, designed to facilitate the export of critical battery metals such as lithium and copper concentrates. Additionally, the infrastructure will support the import of renewable energy components, including wind turbines and blades, positioning the port as a pivotal hub in Australia’s clean energy transition.
Multiple contracts have been awarded by Pilbara Ports – including one to Acciona Construction Australia for the design and construction of two land-backed wharves, and another to Konecranes for the supply and construction of two state-of-the-art mobile harbour cranes – integral to the efficient operation of Lumsden Point, enabling handling of heavy and oversized materials.
Previous WA Ports Minister David Michael said the wharves and harbour cranes are a critical component of Lumsden Point, and so the expansion represents a significant milestone in the project’s advancements.
“The progress made on causeway construction, intersection upgrades and dredging, and land reclamation at Lumsden Point is already delivering economic growth and regional employment opportunities,” he explained.
“The State Government is committed to supporting the creation of jobs, growing and diversifying the economy, and attracting investment.”
It is estimated that the expansion will create about 3,600 ongoing full-time jobs, providing a significant boost the local economy and supporting the long-term sustainability of the Pilbara region, with dredging complete and work well underway for the central access road and service corridor connecting to Great Northern Highway.
Empowering the locals
Recognising the importance of local engagement, Pilbara Ports earlier this year launched a Local Business Register to connect Pilbara-based businesses with companies tendering for upcoming work at Lumsden Point.
The initiative opens doors for local enterprises to participate in various aspects of the project, including building services, civil works, electrical and communications, plumbing, concreting, landscaping and steelwork fabrication and painting.
By fostering local participation, the project not only stimulates economic activity but also strengths community ties and regional development.
According to Pilbara member Kevin Michel, the new Local Business Register will ensure Pilbara businesses benefit from the major investment and contribute to the growth and development of the region.
“Lumsden Point will solidify the Pilbara’s role as a driving force in the clean energy transition, unlocking new trade pathways and creating hundreds of local jobs that will directly benefit our communities,” Mr Michel said.
“The development will also enhance direct shipping services to the Pilbara, improving supply chain efficiency and strengthening the region’s position as a critical hub for global trade.”
A sustainable future
It is estimated that once operational, Lumsden point will add $22.6b in gross domestic product and create an additional 6,204 full-time equivalent jobs across Australia to FY33.
Beyond immediate economic benefits, the expansion is strategically aligned with Australia’s commitment to a sustainable and renewable energy future. By facilitating the export of critical minerals essential for battery production and the import of renewable energy infrastructure, the project positions Port Hedland as a pivotal hub in the global green energy supply chain.
This is more than just an infrastructure project. This is a cornerstone for regional development, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability in the Pilbara.
Through strategic investments and collaborative efforts, it promises to deliver lasting benefits for WA and beyond.