The oversight of the Port of Varanus Island has been transferred to Pilbara Ports Authority, as part of the second phase of the Western Australian Government’s ports governance reform programme.
The ports governance reform programme is aimed at bringing all commercial ports under the same regulatory regime, with these ports progressively transferring from the Department of Transport to regional port authorities.
The Port of Varanus Island is the first of five ports in the Pilbara region to be transferred to Pilbara Ports Authority. Under the transfer, PPA will oversee marine safety for the port.
Operated by Santos for the export of condensate, the Port of Varanus Island is located approximately 75 km from the Pilbara mainland and 140 km west of the Port of Dampier.
Around five vessels berth at the Port of Varanus Island each year, enabling Pilbara Ports Authority to oversee operations remotely from Dampier.
Pilbara Ports Authority CEO Roger Johnston has stated: “Pilbara Ports Authority is the world’s largest bulk export port authority encompassing the ports of Ashburton, Dampier, Port Hedland and now Varanus Island.
“Pilbara Ports Authority welcomes the transfer of the Port of Varanus Island, which will transition from the Shipping and Pilotage Act to the Port Authorities Act.
“The consolidation of commercial ports will ensure better safety, planning and co-ordination of port development in the Pilbara region.
“Our experience in port management, maritime safety and maintenance of port infrastructure is long standing and will ensure a smooth transition.”