Western Australia's Broome targeted for First Port of Entry status

This means cruise ships will be able to travel directly to Broome from overseas destinations.

The Western Australian government welcomed the decision, saying that Kimberley Ports Authority’s application for expanded FPOE status has ‘crossed its first hurdle.’

Resoucing plan

‘Other agencies, including Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry will now work with the Kimberley Ports Authority on the design and development of essential security and biosecurity infrastructure and a resourcing plan to facilitate international vessels and cargo arriving in Broome,’ a WA government statement said.

‘I would like to thank and congratulate KPA and the broader Kimberley business community for promoting this project with the Australian government over the past two years,’ Ports Minister for Western Australia David Michael said.

‘The ability for cruise ships to come directly to Broome from overseas in the future would bring more visitors to Broome and Western Australia, directly supporting our critical tourism industry,’ WA Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said.

Key cruise port

Cruise Lines International Association Australasia MD Joel Katz said this is an important step towards recognising Broome as a key cruise port in Australia and a vital gateway for the thriving Kimberley region.

‘Securing First Port Of Entry status for Broome would give cruise lines greater flexibility when designing itineraries, while also streamlining operations and passenger movements in Western Australia,’ Katz said.

As reported in the December issue of Seatrade Cruise Review, the A$200m private investment in new port infrastructure at the Port of Broome will be a ‘game-changer’ when it is completed at the end of this year.

Floating wharf for Broome

It will eliminate the need for dredging and will include a floating wharf to address the significant operational challenges associated with Broome’s large tide variations.