across the freight network. That and the overall cost of road maintenance. Of particular importance in the context of the freight task is the efficacy of ‘last mile’ connections to ports.
Ports WA’s ports are a key link in creating an efficient freight network. Additional capacity to address general cargo, container and bulk freight exports and imports are critical to reducing costs and creating competitive advantage in the regions. This is particularly the case in WA’s northern regions, which are at the end of long supply chains via Perth and the Eastern States. Expansion of the rail network and capacity improvements generate attractive options of low-cost land and renewable energy in regional locations. To add further value, regional ports will need to boost capability. The following priorities have been identified: • Redirect bulk mineral exports to regional ports to create additional value adding opportunities and free up Western Trade Coast heavy industry land for new projects that leverage industrial ecology synergies with established operations. • Some regional ports will need to increase container capacity to facilitate rapidly growing exports of value-added critical raw materials for batteries processed in the regions, particularly in the Pilbara, Goldfields Esperance and South West. • Ensuring adequate general cargo capacity to lower costs for business and in communities. • Bulk export capacity will be required at some regional ports to export locally processed hydrogen. Air Freight As more regions generate high value produce it will be important to ensure refrigerated air freight capacity at selected airports, particularly in WA’s northern regions. This is driven primarily by the growth of aquaculture across the state and the need to transport perishable goods to market as quickly as possible. Supporting markets include wine and other fresh produce. The critical element is adequate cold storage at airports and adequate volumes and runway length for dedicated air freight flights.
WA Investment Prospectus | 19
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