Bids for the $1.6 billion redevelopment of the Port of Melbourne have been officially opened after the Victorian Government called for expressions of interest for the new Webb Dock container terminal, automotive terminal and Pre Delivery Inspection (PDI) Hub.

 

“Melbourne is Australia’s largest container, automotive and general cargo port with trade results for the 2011-12 year showing 7.8 per cent growth in container trade to 2.58 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) and 4.5 per cent growth in automotive trade to 356,000 vehicles,” Premier Baillieu said.

 

“This represents about 36 per cent of the nation’s total container trade and 40 per cent of the nation’s automotive exports and imports, which is why Victoria is known as the country’s freight and logistics capital.


Mr Baillieu said that all expressions of interest will be assessed using commercial, environmental and community amenity criteria.

 

Minister for Ports Denis Napthine said the Port Expansion Project was critical for Victoria’s future and would create more than 2,600 jobs.

 

“This EoI process is a highly competitive, significant commercial opportunity that has already attracted the interest of some of the world’s best port and automotive operators,” Dr Napthine said.

 

“In releasing formal invitations for the EoI today, the Port of Melbourne will be able to drive the best possible deal that will create jobs, build trade and protect Victoria’s economic future.