Study reveals $35 billion impact of Queensland ports

The study, conducted by independent experts Prominence and commissioned by North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), also found the three east coast ports support around 40,000 jobs across the mining, construction, transport and wholesale trade industries.

NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said the report shines a light on the economic importance of the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region to the State’s economy.

“The Port of Hay Point, one of the largest metallurgical coal ports in the world, helps inject more than $21 billion annually into the Queensland economy and facilitates around 30,000 jobs,” Mr Webb said.

“The Port of Mackay, which not only plays a critical role in the mining supply chain but is the cornerstone of the region’s powerhouse sugar industry, which contributes more than $1 billion annually and supports more than 2,000 jobs across Queensland.”

“The Port of Abbot Point is Queensland’s most northern coal export terminal, supporting global energy markets and contributes nearly $10 billion annually and facilitates more than 8,000 jobs.

Mr Webb said the report also revealed the combined contribution of all NQBP’s four ports – Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point and Weipa.
“Together, our ports and the people who power them make a mighty contribution to the Queensland economy,” Mr Webb said.

“Our ports serve as critical gateways, but it is through our port partners—our terminal operators, customers, tenants, supply chains, and local businesses— that this contribution truly benefits Queenslanders.”

“The ports handle over 54% of Queensland’s international trade by volume; contribute $35 billion annually to Queensland’s Gross State Product and facilitate more than 47,000 jobs across the state.”

The study, released today at a breakfast hosted by NQBP in conjunction with the Resource Industry Network, shows total annual trade passing through NQBP ports is approximately $53 billion in value and around 150 million tonnes in volume.

Metallurgical coal - a primary ingredient in steel making - is by far NQBP’s biggest trade by volume (86%), followed by exports of thermal coal, bauxite and sugar.

The employment impact is greatest in regions where trade facilitated by the export of metallurgical coal drives significant economic activity.

While exports make up the bulk of NQBP’s trade, import volumes have grown by more than  25% since 2019. Imports for the region come through the Port of Mackay and while fuel makes up the majority, diversity of imported goods is increasing including break bulk cargo.

“NQBP sees Mackay as a critical port to enable future economic development of the Greater Whitsunday region and is investigating key capital improvements at the port,” Mr Webb said.

“These potential investments, including extending Wharf 1’s cargo handling capabilities and establishing purpose-built laydown areas, will facilitate competitive port services for the region’s existing industries and provide confidence to proponents of new projects whether they are in mining, agriculture, future fuels, tourism, Defence or renewable energy.”

NQBP’s economic contribution to Gross State Product (GSP) accounts for 44% of total GSP contribution from all Queensland ports.
“This report is a fantastic initiative from North Queensland Bulk Ports, that focuses in on the local impact of these ports,” said Ports Australia CEO Mike Gallacher.

"As the data emphasises, NQBP plays a crucial role not only in the national economy but also in supporting regional economies and their investment back into these communities.”

In identifying the resources sector’s contribution to Queensland’s economy, Resource Industry Network general manager, Dean Kirkwood acknowledged that the ports are a key piece of infrastructure enabling this significant contribution.

“NQBP is an impeccable corporate citizen that is truly focussed on ensuring the continued prosperity of the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region,” Mr Kirkwood said.

Mr Webb said the trade results were only possible because of the commitment and hard work of the men and women from across the port supply chain.

“From terminal operators, customers and marine pilots, to miners, cane growers and so many more – safe and efficient ports are only possible because of the collective efforts of the pioneering people of our regions.”

Mr Webb said NQBP believed in a bright future for NQBP’s ports and the regions.

“With a track record of infrastructure improvements over the past decade, we will continue to invest in our ports, people and operations in support of the vital role they play in the prosperity of Queensland.”

Read the full report on NQBP's website.

Background

Here are four facts from the report that show just how much North Queensland’s bulk ports mean:

• More than half (54%) of Queensland’s international trade by volume
• Injects $35 billion into the state’s economy each year
• More than 47,000 jobs facilitated across Queensland
• Annual trade value of $53 billion

Images for download

Image 1 | Assistant Minister of Regional Development, Resources and Critical Minerals Bryson Head MP, Trade and Investment Queensland CEO Justin McGowan, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Ports Australia CEO Mike Gallacher, NQBP Board Chair Jane McTaggart, NQBP CEO Brendan Webb, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly, and Resource Industry Network General Manager Dean Kirkwood and at the launch of NQBP's Economic Impact Study.

Image 2 | Vessel Pac Achernar entering the Port of Mackay.

Image 3 | Aerial view of the Port of Hay Point.

Image 4 | Aerial view of the Port of Abbot Point.

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation contact:
Amanda Blines | Senior Advisor Brand and Communications
07 4969 0774 | ablines@nqbp.com.au