Business Sydney Executive Director Paul Nicolaou has warned that closing Glebe Island port would threaten Australia’s national security and undermine the Royal Australian Navy’s operational readiness, as the Defence Department confirms the strategic value of the site.
Nicolaou, a member of the Working Port Coalition, said the Defence Department’s position “should put to rest any thought of closing Sydney Harbour’s last remaining deepwater port.”
“National security has never been more important,” Nicolaou said.
“In an era of increasing regional tensions, every operational berth is a strategic asset – without them, Defence’s capacity to respond swiftly to crises, protect trade routes and support national security would be compromised.”
His comments come as the NSW Government reviews the future of the Bays West precinct, which includes plans that could see Glebe Island redeveloped into high-rise apartments.
Despite warnings from business and industry leaders about potential economic fallout, stakeholders remain concerned the Minns Government is still considering the closure.
The Department of Defence confirmed to The Daily Telegraph that the Royal Australian Navy uses Glebe Island and nearby White Bay to berth vessels when Garden Island is at capacity—especially during military exercises, foreign naval visits, or ship maintenance.
A recent Urbis report highlighted Glebe Island’s importance in national disaster response, military mobilisation, and law enforcement, warning that the loss of the port would create major logistical challenges.
The report also cautioned that shutting down the port could worsen the NSW housing crisis, as Glebe Island plays a critical role in the construction materials supply chain.
The NSW Government confirmed it has held discussions with the Navy about the future of the port, stating: “No decisions have been made.”
Source: Daily Telegraph.
