PortLink Steering Committee in Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the concept had the potential to link Western Australia’s resource-rich regions of the Mid-West, Pilbara and Yilgarn to Perth and the Eastern States’ transport corridors through an alternative intermodal freight logistics hub at Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

“Importantly, the development of a new freight hub will create a more efficient freight network to attract more business and open up new markets,” Mr Grylls said.

While in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, the interagency committee, comprising representatives from seven agencies, will visit the potential project sites and meet with the city council and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The Minister said he had discussed with Transport Minister Troy Buswell about the long-awaited project, which would contribute significantly to improving economic development and employment opportunities in the regions.

“The steering committee will be progressing detailed feasibility studies, looking into market demand, economic benefit, project design, land needs and financial viability,” Mr Grylls said.

The seven-member committee will guide and oversee the project from its preliminary stages, while strongly supporting planning and co-ordination across government. The committee reports directly to the Minister for Transport and the Minister for Regional Development.