Jan De Nul Australia has been awarded a major dredging contract for the construction of a new bypass channel at the Port of Port Hedland to strengthen the long-term safety and resilience of one of the world’s busiest bulk export ports.
Pilbara Ports has awarded the contract for the AUS$50 million Zone 5 Bypass Channel project, which was funded in this year’s state budget. The initiative will create an alternative route around a challenging section of the port’s 42-kilometre shipping channel known as Zone 5, where vessels currently navigate a steeper-edged area under tightly managed operating conditions.
“This contract award marks an important milestone in strengthening the long-term resilience of Port Hedland,” said Western Australian Ports and Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson.
“The Zone 5 Bypass Channel is an industry-supported solution that will help ensure trade can continue, even in the unlikely event of an incident.”
He added that the investment reinforced Western Australia’s reputation as ‘a safe, reliable and efficient trading partner for global markets’.
The Port of Port Hedland is one of the world’s largest bulk export hubs and plays a critical role in supporting Australia’s iron ore trade. Some of the largest vessels operating globally transit the channel, often moving in convoy and within narrow tidal windows.
The new bypass channel is expected to enhance navigational safety by providing an alternative pathway for ships, complementing existing passing lanes and refuge areas while improving the port’s ability to manage operational risks and maintain uninterrupted trade flows.
“This investment is an important step forward for Port Hedland and the Pilbara region, helping to ensure the port continues to operate safely and efficiently for years to come,” said Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel.
The project has been developed in consultation with major port users and supported by extensive navigational simulations, environmental assessments and geotechnical investigations.
Dredging works are scheduled to begin in September, supporting the Cook Government’s broader Seven Cities vision for regional economic development across Western Australia.
