Despite Rising Tide’s attempts to upset the applecart, the Port of Newcastle (PoN) has delivered its strongest diversified trade performance on record.
It comes after more than 11.12 million tonnes of non-coal cargo passed through the local gateway in 2025.
The milestone exceeds the previous mark of 10.13 million tonnes set in 2021, driven by a surge in key export commodities including wheat, along with growing volumes of project cargo supporting major renewable energy projects across NSW and beyond.
CEO Craig Carmody said the result demonstrated both the strength of the port’s diversification strategy and its expanding role in supporting Australia’s energy transition and agricultural supply chains.
“Surpassing 11.12 million tonnes of diversified trade in 2025 reinforces our long-term commitment to broadening our trade base,” he explained.
“These record volumes are more than numbers.
“They reflect the depth of our partnerships, the dedication of our workforce, and the progress we’re making towards a more diversified and sustainable future for our port… and our region.”
Wheat exports increased 396% year-on-year to reach 2.9 million tonnes, buoyed by favourable seasonal conditions across northern cropping regions.
Distributing meals and grain to the UAE, Bangladesh, Japan and Vietnam also grew 19% on 2024 volumes.
In total, Port of Newcastle handled more than 160 million tonnes of cargo, including 149 million tonnes in coal exports.
“Coal continues to underpin a significant portion of our trade, providing energy security to our global customers,” Mr Carmody said.
“Change doesn’t happen overnight and, as markets like Asia continue to diversify, we remain a critical energy export gateway.”
The PoN recorded 2,340 vessel visits in 2025, of which 574 were non-coal.
“What many people may not realise is the port handles 25 different cargo types, from aluminium, cement and fuels to fertiliser, steel and project cargo,” Mr Carmody said.
“That’s all helping to drive growth in diversified trade.
“We’ve seen particularly strong demand for the import and export of machinery and project cargo, with more than 431,000 tonnes in 2025.
“A major contributor to this was the arrival of wind turbine components for the Uungula Wind Farm within the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone.”
Mr Carmody said the latest outcomes underlined Port of Newcastle’s critical role as a key logistics hub.
“We continue to evolve as a vital gateway for Australia’s energy future,” he added.
“Over the next decade, this will not only contribute to the port’s ongoing diversification but play an essential role in powering the nation’s transformation to cleaner energy.”
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