Ports Australia has released its inaugural State of Trade Report this week, which provides an unprecedented look at the critical role that Australian ports play in supporting our nation’s economy, workforce, and global trade.
Ports Australia is the peak body representing the interests of the Australian port industry. It serves as a national voice and plays a crucial role in advocating for policies and initiatives that promote the growth and development of Australian ports.
Queensland is a star performer on the eastern side of the country in this report, providing 251,000 jobs and 300 million tonnes of cargo worth $128 billion. Only Western Australia has higher figures than these, due to its iron ore exports.
Ports move 99% of Australia’s international trade by volume, contributing $264 billion annually to Gross State Product (GSP). As a primary driver of our economy and workforce, Australia’s ports are vital to sustaining our island nation. As well as facilitating international trade and the movement of goods throughout the region, our ports are strategic assets and critical infrastructure.
With ports located across our 34,000km of national coastline, Australia’s entry and exit points play a key role in the transport of natural resources, new technologies and manufactured and consumer goods.
Facilitating some 700,000 jobs and more than 1.6 billion tonnes of annual trade, Australian ports see around 31,000 vessels each year and ensure the flow of $650 billion worth of trade. They also support 1.25 million cruise passengers annually.
Major industries such as mining, energy, construction, and tourism rely heavily on the efficient functioning of our ports, which are now revealed as a cornerstone of our economic and supply chain security.
The State of Trade report is a key indicator of Australia’s economic health and regional reputation. Ports Australia say in the opening of their report, “We take pride in the fact Australia’s global standing is intrinsically tied to its ports. This report highlights the crucial role of ports and Ports Australia in driving our nation’s progress.”
This report is presented with illustrations and graphs which makes it easy to read and understand. It is available as a Power Point presentation at this LINK.
Also see this related article from our archives: Australian Export Milestones
For the latest information about shipping, ports and stevedoring, talk to here at Colless Young. As licensed Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders we offer correct, professional advice on all your international transport requirements. We are based in Brisbane and provide a complete range of logistics services, both airfreight and sea cargo, through all Australian ports and airports.
