WA Marine Firm Considers Bid for Darwin Port as Federal Government Seeks Australian Ownership
A Western Australian marine company behind two major infrastructure projects is actively considering a bid for the Darwin Port, as the federal government looks for a buyer to return the facility to Australian ownership.
The Darwin Port was controversially leased by the Northern Territory government to Chinese-owned Landbridge for 99 years in 2015, sparking years of national security debate. Although no concrete security threats have emerged, both major political parties promised during the recent election to bring the port back under Australian control.
While federal authorities have not disclosed which companies are currently involved in negotiations, several firms have expressed interest in acquiring the lease.
WA Business Sees Strategic Opportunity
Andrew Natta, founder of Kimberley Marine Support Base in Broome and Onslow Marine Support Base in the Pilbara, confirmed that his privately-owned Australian firm is seriously considering a bid for Darwin Port. Though the Onslow and Kimberley projects are separate, they share common ownership and leadership.
“If you look at our track record and investments — including nearly $250 million into the Kimberley Marine Support Base — it makes sense for us to consider this opportunity,” Mr Natta said.
While no meetings have yet been held with federal or Northern Territory officials, Mr Natta indicated discussions are likely to take place soon.
“Right now, we’re saying there’s genuine interest, and we’ll likely move forward with meetings,” he said.
The WA government has strongly supported both the Kimberley and Onslow marine projects, praising their role in expanding industrial capacity. Mr Natta said the same long-term, patient approach would guide any investment in Darwin Port.
“Our aim would be to enhance the port’s capabilities while taking a generational approach to investment,” he added.
Although Mr Natta avoided commenting directly on Landbridge’s lease, he noted his belief in the value of having the port under full Australian ownership:
“An all-Australian partnership works well and helps provide key port services for those who need them.”
Other Potential Bidders Circle
While federal officials remain tight-lipped about ongoing negotiations, several companies are reportedly exploring bids. US private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management — with ties to the Trump administration — is said to be working on a joint bid with Australian logistics firm Toll Group. However, neither company has publicly confirmed its intentions.
The federal government has also reportedly engaged with Australian superannuation funds as potential partners.
Meanwhile, Landbridge maintains it is not seeking to sell its lease. Earlier this month, Landbridge Australia’s non-executive director Terry O’Connor told 7.30 that his company has been unfairly targeted by misinformation and politically charged criticism from some Australian ministers.
Government Negotiations Continue
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King confirmed that the government is working closely with Northern Territory officials on the next steps, but declined to comment on specific negotiations due to commercial sensitivities.
“It would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage,” Ms. King said.
Northern Territory Treasurer Bill Yan echoed this cautious stance, saying the NT government is collaborating with the federal government to ensure the best outcome for both the NT and Australia.
“We will not pre-empt that work,” he said.
