❓ Opposition questions the Premier about delays to the Oakajee Port project following Sinosteel's decision to put the Weld Range mine on hold. The Premier acknowledges delays, blames the previous government's mandate, and defends his efforts to progress the project.
AnsweredQoN 407Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
SINOSTEEL MIDWEST CORPORATION LTD — WELD RANGE MID WEST MINE
I refer to the reported confirmation by Sinosteel Midwest Corporation Ltd today that it is putting on hold its Weld Range Mid West mine, thus jeopardising the Oakajee project. Given that the Premier has made the Oakajee project his priority project and that he personally came up with the process that has led to this outcome, I ask — (1) Will the Oakajee port construction actually begin in this parliamentary term? (2) What has been the state’s expenditure on this project to date? (3) What will the Premier now do to ensure that this project proceeds? Mr C.J. BARNETT
I refer to the reported confirmation by Sinosteel Midwest Corporation Ltd today that it is putting on hold its Weld Range Mid West mine, thus jeopardising the Oakajee project. Given that the Premier has made the Oakajee project his priority project and that he personally came up with the process that has led to this outcome, I ask — (1) Will the Oakajee port construction actually begin in this parliamentary term? (2) What has been the state’s expenditure on this project to date? (3) What will the Premier now do to ensure that this project proceeds? Mr C.J. BARNETT
AnswerView source ↗
(1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
(1) Will the Oakajee port construction actually begin in this parliamentary term? (2) What has been the state’s expenditure on this project to date? (3) What will the Premier now do to ensure that this project proceeds? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
(2) What has been the state’s expenditure on this project to date? (3) What will the Premier now do to ensure that this project proceeds? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
(3) What will the Premier now do to ensure that this project proceeds? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
(1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
(1) Will the Oakajee port construction actually begin in this parliamentary term? (2) What has been the state’s expenditure on this project to date? (3) What will the Premier now do to ensure that this project proceeds? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
(2) What has been the state’s expenditure on this project to date? (3) What will the Premier now do to ensure that this project proceeds? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
(3) What will the Premier now do to ensure that this project proceeds? Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT replied: (1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
(1)–(3) Sinosteel is obviously operating its existing mines in the Mid West, and its development project is the Weld Range project, which is a large investment. It has put that project on hold. It has not abandoned, cancelled or walked away from the project, but clearly the timetable for the Oakajee Port and Rail development is not where it was; there is at least a 12-month delay. So, it cannot develop its Weld Range project until it has rail and port infrastructure in place. It has put it into a holding pattern. I have known about that for some time; I am not surprised by that. There are issues with Oakajee Port and Rail. Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr E.S. Ripper : So what are you going to do? Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : What I am doing—unlike members opposite, who try to scuttle and criticise projects — Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr M. McGowan : Rubbish! Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : That is what members opposite do all the time. Unlike their negative approach to the development of Western Australia — Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr E.S. Ripper : The economy doubled on our watch. Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr M. McGowan : With 170 new mines. The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
The SPEAKER : Member for Rockingham! Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Yes, yes; members opposite were terrific! The Leader of the Opposition would not even pick up the phone to take a call from Inpex Corporation; does he remember that? He lost a $15 billion project single-handedly. Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
The SPEAKER : Member for Cockburn! We have had two and a half questions. Member for Balcatta, I am sure you would appreciate the amount of time it has taken. Less interjecting would mean more answers to questions. Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
Mr C.J. BARNETT : Oakajee Port and Rail, which is operating under a mandate awarded by the previous government and inherited by this government, is due to report with bankable feasibility and financial viability documents at the end of June. It has an extension to 31 December, which I gave it earlier this year, to have a final investment decision on the project. That is the timetable, and we will wait until 30 June and 31 December. I assure members that an enormous effort is going into getting this project underway. Why? This is being done because it will open up a whole new mineral province, a whole development area, in the southern part of the state. This will provide immense economic opportunities for the people of this state. That is why it is a priority project. Unlike members opposite, I actually work on it; I work day and night to get these projects going.
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