The WA Government has today announced it will deliver a new fit-for-purpose Seafarers Centre in Port Hedland to cater for the tens of thousands of seafarers who bring ships into the town’s bustling port each year.
The $13.5 million cost of the new centre will initially be funded as part of the 2024-25 State Budget, with those costs to be recovered from industry via a shipping charge, with agreed contributions from port users BHP, Fortescue, Roy Hill, Mineral Resources Limited and Atlas Iron.
Ports Minister, David Michael (pictured, second from right) said seafarers play an important role in facilitating the trade of iron ore and other commodities from the Port of Port Hedland and typically spend between 6 to 12 months at sea at a time.
“By providing some of the comforts of home at this new facility, we are supporting the welfare of thousands of seafarers who visit the port each year,” he said.
“The Cook Government welcomes the industry contribution from BHP, Fortescue, Roy Hill, Mineral Resources and Atlas that will help make this project possible.
“I’m proud Pilbara Ports can play such a key role in delivering a project that will be so important for so many international seafarers, the Port Hedland community and the broader WA economy.”
The investment builds on the State Government’s contribution of more than $2 million, through Pilbara Ports, for the purchase of land for the new facility.
Pilbara Ports will oversee the project’s development and, following the lease of the new facility to the Mission for Seafarers, will ensure it is adequately maintained, the Minister said.
The existing Seafarers Centre was built more than 50 years ago and is no longer suitable.
The new Seafarers Centre will include accommodation, recreational spaces, dining facilities and a small chapel to support seafarers on shore leave.
Final design and procurement processes will be undertaken in 2024, with construction expected to start in the first half of 2025.
