Port of Brisbane expects to submit channel project EIS draft by mid-2027

en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Port of Brisbane has confirmed that preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for its proposed Channel Enhancement Project remains on track, with the draft EIS expected to be submitted to the Office of the Coordinator-General by mid-2027.

The Channel Enhancement Project is a proposed 25-year program aimed at adding long-term capacity to the regional shipping network, enabling the Port of Brisbane to accommodate larger vessels to support future trade growth. Technical studies covering environmental, cultural, social, and economic matters are currently underway, and will assess the project's potential impacts in accordance with the approved Terms of Reference.

Brendan Connell, Port of Brisbane's Project Director and Executive General Manager of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, said a range of environmental and other technical workstreams are being progressed to inform the EIS, including geotechnical investigations currently being undertaken at multiple locations across the bay.

The Port of Brisbane plans to hold community information sessions in Caloundra, Bribie Island, Redcliffe, and Redlands in September and October 2026. The schedule is as follows: Bribie Island RSL Club, Wednesday 9 September 2026; Redcliffe Leagues Club, Wednesday 16 September 2026; Library+ Caloundra, Tuesday 13 October 2026; and Redlands RSL, Thursday 22 October 2026. These sessions will give community members the opportunity to meet the project team, learn about the project proposal, and understand the EIS process. Participants will also be able to discuss the technical studies and provide feedback.

Connell said the port is also committed to keeping the community informed, providing more opportunities for people to learn about the project, ask questions, and participate in the assessment process. Once complete, the draft EIS will be submitted to the Office of the Coordinator-General for adequacy review, and will then be released for public consultation. Feedback from the community and stakeholders will be incorporated into the final EIS, which will be submitted for consideration by the Queensland and Australian Governments.