4.4 Coastal-dependent industry 4.4.1 Commercial ports Context Commercial ports are significant contributors to the Victorian economy, with the Port of Melbourne the largest and the busiest container port in Australia. Other commercial ports are located at Hastings, Geelong and Portland and cater for bulk cargo. These ports are Victoria's trading gateway to the world, providing access to more than 300 markets for Victorian exporters. The ports' efficient operation is essential to both Victorian and Australian economies. The Victorian Ports Strategic Framework (2004) provides high level strategic guidance for the long term development of Victorian commercial ports. The development of individual port land use strategies will provide important policy directions and where appropriate, infrastructure planning. Port of Melbourne I. Walton The Channel Deepening Project is being implemented by the Port of Melbourne Corporation (PoMC). It will deepen shipping channels in Port Phillip Bay and the lower reaches of the Yarra River by dredging to enable ships up to 14 metre draught to access the Port of Melbourne. Dredging operations commenced in February 2008. The operational stage of the project that includes dredging and ancillary works is scheduled for completion in late-2009. Monitoring programs will continue for a further two years. Policy 1. Support the sustainable development of commercial ports. 2. Support efforts by commercial ports to minimise environmental impacts on the coast and bay waters through Port Safety and Environmental Management Plans. 3. Support the enhancement of the community experience and perception of the commercial ports.

10 December 2008