Bulk jetty funding of $39.5m queried

The Opposition has questioned the State Government over funding for the Kwinana bulk jetty and terminal, asking whether funds allocated were due to an increased demand at the facility.

In State Parliament last month, then-Opposition leader Mike Nahan pointed to “substantial” investment allocated to the jetty and terminal in the Budget through the forward estimates, questioning if demand was increasing or if the money was simply for upgrades.

During the sitting, Fremantle Port Authority general manager Tanvi Haria responded to Dr Nahan’s questions, saying there was an ageing asset base, and that most of the expenditure was related to replacement of plant and equipment, and to meet customer needs.

The total cost of the project is slated to come in around $39.5 million, but Ms Haria said this was subject to commercial negotiations with customers, which was currently in the planning stages.