The Australian port of Melbourne handled more containers in 2024 than ever before.
Compared to the previous year, the result is almost a tenth better.
Total throughput in Melbourne amounted to 3.396 million TEU – a record volume for the port in the state of Victoria. This represents an increase of 9% compared to 2023, when throughput amounted to around 3.12 million TEU.
“The Port of Melbourne plays a critical role as a trade gateway for South East Australia and beyond,” said Saul Cannon, CEO of the port. “The significant growth in container trade underpins economic activity in Victoria and reflects the state’s diverse business landscape.”
Melbourne on course for growth
Melissa Horne, Australian Minister for Ports and Freight, said: “The record-breaking trade figures have provided a boost to the economy and ensure Victoria’s residents have a secure supply of the things they rely on every day through a strong trade gateway. That’s why we continue to support our ports and the cargo industry.”
The port said its high container throughput in 2024 was due to an increase in import trade, particularly of consumer goods such as furniture. Export trade also benefited from excellent growth conditions for a wide range of agricultural goods.
Cannon added: “Trade through the Port of Melbourne is developing positively and promisingly. We are seeing growth in overall trade volumes, including container trade, which is expected to continue to increase.”
The port acts as an important hub in the state of Victoria, as evidenced by the investments made in recent years. Since 2016, over A$800 million (Australian dollars) has been invested in infrastructure, with a further A$700 million expected to follow by 2028, according to a statement.
The Port of Melbourne recently published its trade figures for January 2025, showing an increase in container throughput compared to the previous year to 289,000 TEU – the positive trend in the south-east of Down Under therefore appears to be continuing.
