Darwin Ship Lift Head Contract Award

8 September 2023

The Territory Labor Government is establishing Darwin as a thriving maritime services industry hub, both nationally and internationally.

A pivotal step in this endeavour is awarding the head contract to Clough-BMD Joint Venture for the construction of the state-of-the-art Ship Lift Facility at East Arm. 

This monumental project is set to commence construction soon, ushering in a new era of maritime infrastructure and capabilities.

The companies that comprise Clough-BMD Joint Venture have demonstrated capacity to deliver key infrastructure projects in the Territory and combine local knowledge with national and global expertise.

Navigation simulations and 3D hydraulic modelling were completed in June 2023 for the ship lift design to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Global ship lift vendors and self-propelled modular transfer system vendors have been engaged to supply critical machinery ahead of construction.

Environmental considerations have also been paramount in the project's development. The Northern Territory Environment Protection Authority (NT EPA) undertook a thorough assessment of the Environmental Impact Statement for the ship lift, ultimately granting the necessary approvals in August 2023.

This decision underscores the project's commitment to maintaining harmony between progress and the surrounding environment.

During the peak of construction, over 250 workers will be employed, with an average of 100 workers on-site throughout the process. Upon completion, the ship lift facility will perpetuate hundreds of local jobs within the maritime support sector, contributing significantly to the region's economic growth and stability.

The ship lift facility will span 26 metres in width and 103 metres in length, boasting an impressive vessel lifting capacity of 5,500 tonnes. Furthermore, wet berths will accommodate vessels for in-water maintenance, while hard stand areas will facilitate ship repair and maintenance works.

Quote attributable to Minister for Territory Development, Eva Lawler:

“This is an exciting time for the maritime industry as a whole, the Darwin Ship lift will act as a key maintenance centre for the region. 

“Over the past 12 months, we have been working hard to ensure construction can begin as soon as the head contract is awarded.

“As we progress with the Darwin Ship Lift, we create more jobs for Territorians and strive towards our goal of a $40 billion economy by 2030.”

Quote attributable to Clough CEO, Peter Bennett:

“The Clough-BMD Joint Venture is proud to have been selected to deliver the engineering, procurement and construction scope (EPC) for the development of the Darwin Ship Lift Facility by the Northern Territory (NT) Government.

“This facility will be constructed to meet the current and long-term needs of the Department of Defence and the Australian Border Force and the needs of the general fishing and maritime sector. 

“The ship lift will have the capacity to lift vessels up to 5,500 tonnes such as the new fleet of offshore patrol vessels procured by the Australian Defence Force. As part of this project, the Clough-BMD Joint Venture will ensure to make a positive impact through business opportunities, jobs and community initiatives in the Territory.”

Quote attributable to BMD Group CEO, Scott Power:

“We’re looking forward to working together with Clough and the Territory Government on this milestone project and first-class facility.

“BMD has operated in the Territory for over 26 years, earning a robust reputation for successful infrastructure delivery through our relationship-based approach to engage people, partners and the community, and leave a lasting skills legacy.

“The Clough-BMD Joint Venture is delivering the project under a local first approach and we’re committed to making a positive impact in the Territory through education, jobs, business opportunities and community initiatives.”

Northern Territory Government