Pilbara Ports is continuing to conduct condition inspections of its facilities at the Port of Dampier and the Port of Ashburton following Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle (34U).
Port of Dampier The port reopened on 28 March 2026 however significant damage was identified across Pilbara Ports general cargo precinct, and all general cargo import operations remain suspended. The Dampier Cargo Wharf and adjacent floating deck facility remain inoperable due to structural damage. The Bulk Liquids Berth is operable, and fuel imports are not affected.
Further engineering assessments, including underwater inspections and marine surveys will continue over the next few days. These assessments will inform when safe general cargo import operations can resume.
Port of Ashburton The port reopened on 28 March 2026 however Pilbara Ports Ashburton Cargo Wharf remains closed. Engineering teams are now able to access the port, and inspections will be carried out over the next few days.
Port of Varanus Island The Port of Varanus Island re-opened on 28 March 2026. Its operations are not impacted.
Pilbara Ports is committed to effecting repairs and restoring capability as safely and efficiently as possible across the ports of Dampier and Ashburton. It will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Refer to Media Statement Update 1 - Saturday 28 March 2026 for more detail.
The Pilbara Ports operates and manages the Port of Dampier in accordance with the Port Authorities Act 1999 (WA) and the Port Authorities Regulations 2001 (WA).
The Port of Dampier Land Use Master Plan 2030 contemplates existing uses and potential future uses of land and infrastructure at the port, along with the movement of freight and cargoes both within and external to the port area.
While the Port of Dampier is a mature port with proven capabilities, it has ageing general cargo infrastructure and limited land available for new developments. Notwithstanding these constraints, opportunities for future growth have been identified.
The Port of Dampier Land Use Master Plan 2030 sets out port specific strategies that will support existing trade and anticipated growth at the port over the next decade, and ensure seamless integration with sea and land transport networks.
VIEW INTERACTIVE DAMPIER LAND USE MASTER PLAN
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View the following pages for further information on Pilbara Ports approach to planning and development.
Port planning and development
Extension of the Dampier Cargo Wharf