Melbourne is Australia’s largest container port but its draught restraints have left it unable to handle fully-laden vessels already operating in many Australian trades. Even 4,500 teu ships compromise the 11.6-metre channel to the port.Dredging is expected to begin early in the new year and will involve the removal of some 23m cu m of material.
The Association of Australian Ports and Marine Authorities (AAPMA) has welcomed the decision.