Patrick and DP World have signed ten-year leases with Fremantle Ports for two existing container terminals in Fremantle.
The leases are for a ten-year term, with potential for Fremantle Ports to extend the term by up to a further eleven years, subject to the Western Australian Government’s planning timeline for a transition to a new Outer Harbour Westport container terminal. The new leases took effect from January 2021.
Key outcomes from the negotiations include:
- Guaranteed investment by Patrick and DP World to upgrade port facilities and equipment
- Introduction of KPIs and associated incentives to drive improvement in landside and quayside performance
- Agreed structure on infrastructure charges
- Equalisation of berth lengths between the two stevedores
Acting Fremantle Ports CEO, Sean Craig, said he was delighted to have agreed to new ten-year leases with Patrick and DP World.
“This provides many benefits to WA shippers and the wider container industry,” Mr Craig said.
“Importantly, we have secured a significant capital commitment to upgrade the terminal facilities and a charging structure that provides price certainty for WA shippers.”
Fremantle is the first port in Australia to agree with the stevedoring companies on a means of managing infrastructure charges under these leases, with Fremantle Ports agreeing to provide certainty of property costs across the period. This will provide much improved commercial certainty for shippers and the container industry.
Fremantle Ports said it had worked hard to negotiate a charging structure that provides significant benefit to WA’s exporters, as they operate in a highly competitive global market.
Patrick has recently taken delivery of a new generation crane at its Fremantle operations and is in the process of renewing operating equipment and systems to support operational efficiency in coming years.
Patrick CEO, Michael Jovicic, said Patrick was pleased to conclude the lease negotiation with Fremantle Ports.
“Patrick continues to invest in Fremantle and across our Australian portfolio to deliver value-adding, reliable and efficient services to our customers,” Mr Jovicic said.
DP World intends to develop a new truck marshalling area within its lease boundary and make significant investment in new terminal equipment to increase efficiency.
DP World Managing Director, Glen Hilton, said, “DP World is delighted to be entering into a new ten-year lease at Fremantle, continuing its proud history of operating in Western Australia.
“Fremantle is an important part of DP World’s national portfolio and our significant investment will continue to support our customers and the local economy.”
Value for money and public good clearly taken care-of.