2/2/98
Transport Minister Eric Charlton today welcomed the announcement by the Dampier Port Authority to award a five-year contract for the management and operation of the Dampier Public Wharf to Western Stevedores (Dampier) Pty Ltd from April 6, 1998.
Mr Charlton said Western Stevedores was committed to providing a reliable and efficient service to users of the Dampier Port.
He said that under the agreement, Western Stevedores would operate under an exclusive contract to manage and provide port services to the Dampier Public Wharf.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) had reviewed the new arrangements and has advised that it has no objection to the agreement.
Mr Charlton said this was another positive step forward in the progression of port reform in Western Australia.
"This is part of the Government's port reform agenda where our objective is to deliver greater efficiencies to port users throughout the State and ensure they benefit through a better and more cost effective level of service," he said.
"Port users can now factor in total reliability for port operations in Dampier and this should provide them with a major commercial advantage and enhance international confidence in the port."
Media contact: Nicole Trigwell / Greg Trenberth 9321 7333
