Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

Planning Moves Ahead for Westport Freight Rail Upgrades

Planning is underway for freight rail upgrades to support Western Australia’s future Westport container terminal at Kwinana. The $67 million planning and development program includes a new rail connection, track duplication, level crossing removals and a new bridge at North Lake Road. While construction funding has not yet been announced, the work is an important step towards preparing WA’s freight network for future container volumes.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

China’s Factory Activity Contracts as Domestic Demand Weakens

China’s factory activity unexpectedly contracted in July, with weaker domestic orders and disruptions from typhoons weighing on production. The slowdown comes as the boost from front-loaded exports begins to fade, putting renewed pressure on Beijing to support domestic demand.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

The Hidden Cost of a Disrupted Shipping Market

Global shipping disruption is doing more than driving up freight rates. It is making the cost of getting goods to market harder to predict, with implications for landed costs, margins, pricing and supply chain planning.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

When Ships Arrive Together: Understanding Vessel Bunching

Vessel bunching can create a ripple effect well beyond the port. With several vessels arriving close together, terminal, transport and equipment capacity can come under pressure. We look at what this could mean for cargo moving through Fremantle in the coming weeks.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

Wildlife Trafficking Operation Highlights Import Compliance Risks

Wildlife trafficking is under the spotlight following a major Sydney operation that saw authorities seize exotic and native reptiles, along with around $300,000 in cash and bullion. The case highlights the strict import and export controls surrounding live animals in Australia and the serious penalties for non-compliance.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

Fremantle Traffic Bridge: A Faster Road Back to Normal

The new Fremantle Traffic Bridge is now on track to open before the end of 2026, months earlier than originally planned. For the freight industry, the return of a direct crossing will be welcome news after months of changed routes, increased traffic pressures and adjustments around the Fremantle port precinct.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

Rail Reaches Record Share of Fremantle Container Freight

Rail has reached a record share of Fremantle’s container freight, with 26.4% of containers moving by rail during 2025-26. More than 240,000 TEU were transported by train as Fremantle Ports also recorded its busiest year on record.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

China’s Ports Under Pressure as Typhoon Disruption Continues

China’s major ports are facing another round of disruption as Typhoon Dolphin follows recent weather events affecting Shanghai, Ningbo, Yantian and Shekou. With terminal restrictions, vessel delays and congestion already creating pressure across the network, businesses also need to look ahead to China’s Golden Week in October and the seasonal increase in shipping activity before and after the holiday.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

Why Early Communication Saves Time (and Money) in Shipping

Good communication is one of the simplest ways to keep your supply chain running smoothly. Whether it's a change to your cargo ready date, updated documentation or a supplier delay, sharing information early gives everyone the opportunity to plan ahead and helps avoid unnecessary costs and delays.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

June Container Volumes Dip as Weather Impacts Fremantle Operations

June's container throughput at Fremantle Ports fell to its lowest level since February 2025, reflecting the impact of several weather-related disruptions during the month. While the slowdown is expected to be temporary, it highlights how quickly severe weather can influence vessel schedules and the wider supply chain.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

Global Trade is Growing... But So Are the Costs

Global trade is on track for another record year, but the latest figures reveal there's more to the story than growing trade volumes. Rising energy costs, shipping disruptions and higher logistics expenses are driving much of the increase, creating new challenges for Australian importers and exporters. Here's what the latest global trade update means for your supply chain.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

BMSB Season Is Approaching: Now Is the Time to Prepare

The 2026-27 Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) season is fast approaching. While no major changes are currently expected to Australia's seasonal measures, now is the ideal time for importers to review upcoming shipments, treatment requirements and booking schedules before the busy season begins.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

New U.S. Tariffs Take Effect: What Australian Exporters Need to Know

The United States has introduced new tariffs affecting imports from 60 trading partners, including Australia. We examine what the changes mean for Australian exporters, which products may be affected, and the practical steps businesses should consider as the new measures come into effect.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

Federal Court Clears the Way for DP World's Automation Plans at Fremantle

The Federal Court has ruled in favour of DP World, allowing the company to proceed with automation plans at its Fremantle container terminal. While there are no immediate operational changes for customers, the decision marks an important milestone in the future of port operations and raises important questions about productivity, technology and the evolving role of Australia's waterfront workforce.

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Amanda Bradfield Amanda Bradfield

Westport's Preferred Container Port Design for Western Australia

Westport has unveiled the preferred design for Western Australia's future container port at Kwinana, marking a major milestone in the state's long-term freight strategy. Discover what the proposed $7.2 billion project means for importers, exporters and the future of container trade in WA.

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