Last Updated: 16^th September 2025

Patrick Terminals Launches 2026 WILpower Cadet Program to Champion Women in Logistics

Patrick Terminals, Australia’s leading container terminal operator, has announced that applications are now open for the 2026 intake of its WILpower Cadet Program, designed to encourage and support women into the stevedoring and logistics industry.

WILpower (Women in Logistics) is Patrick Terminals’ flagship diversity and inclusion initiative, offering a structured two-year cadetship to provide participants with hands-on operational experience, mentoring and tertiary study opportunities. The program is designed to build the next generation of female leaders in an industry historically underrepresented by women.

The 2026 program will offer roles across Patrick Terminals’ operations, including Sydney, Melbourne, Fremantle and Brisbane. Positions include workplace health and safety cadetships based in Brisbane and Sydney, operational cadet roles in Melbourne and Fremantle, an engineering cadetship in Melbourne, and a corporate safety cadetship in Sydney. Participants will receive a competitive full-time salary, structured rotations, one-on-one mentoring and support for further education through the Australian Maritime College.

“By directly addressing gender imbalance within our workforce, we aim to drive lasting change and encourage greater representation of women in key operational and management roles,” said Michael Jovicic, CEO of Patrick Terminals. “Through the WILpower Cadet Program, we are providing opportunities that empower women to build rewarding careers in logistics and play a critical role in the future of our industry.”

Since its inception, the WILpower program has supported multiple cohorts of women who have gone on to secure operational and leadership roles across Patrick’s national network.

Applications for the 2026 intake are open now and will close on 28 September 2025.

For more information or to apply, visit www.patrick.com.au/wilpower.

Media contact – Sarah Dennis 0418 653 863

The post Media Release – 16/09 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 25^th October 2024

Seaspan Breeze Makes History at Patrick Terminals – Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia – Patrick Terminals is proud to announce the arrival today of the Seaspan Breeze, the largest vessel by LOA and width to dock at Swanson Dock, Melbourne. Measuring an impressive 337 metres in length and 48.2 metres in beam, the Seaspan Breeze has set a new benchmark, highlighting the capability of Patrick Terminals to service large container ships.

Michael Jovicic, CEO of Patrick Terminals, commented on the historic event: “The arrival of the Seaspan Breeze is a milestone that demonstrates the strength of our infrastructure and our capacity to handle larger vessels as needed. The coordination between our team, the Port of Melbourne, Ports Victoria and our partners ensures that we can continue to meet our customers’ requirements with world-class services. We are committed to investing in our terminal capabilities to continue to deliver operational excellence.”

Brook Paviour, Managing Director at Ocean Network Express, said: “The Seaspan Breeze’s arrival in Melbourne underscores our commitment to providing efficient and reliable shipping solutions. Capacity remains one of the key elements to the quality of service for our customers and to be able to bring a vessel of this size to Swanson Dock is a significant achievement towards this end. Part of our goal to be your number ONE shipping partner.”

Patrick Terminals would like to extend its gratitude to the Port of Melbourne, the Port Phillip Sea Pilots, Ports Victoria and Svitzer for their pivotal roles in ensuring the safe and smooth docking of this record-breaking vessel. This collaboration demonstrates the strength and reliability of Melbourne’s maritime infrastructure.

Media contact – Sarah Dennis 0418 653 863

The post Media Release – 25/10 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 23^rd October 2024

CMA CGM Volga Breaks Record as Largest Vessel to Call at Patrick Terminals – Melbourne

Patrick Terminals has welcomed the CMA CGM Volga, the largest container vessel by TEU capacity to ever visit Swanson Dock. With a capacity of 10,622 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units), the arrival of the CMA CGM Volga marks a milestone for both Patrick Terminals and the Port of Melbourne, demonstrating the terminal’s capability to handle large vessels.

Michael Jovicic, CEO of Patrick Terminals, stated: “We are pleased to welcome the CMA CGM Volga to Patrick Terminals at Swanson Dock. This vessel, with its 10,622 TEU capacity, demonstrates the ability of our terminal to handle large container ships visiting Australia. This arrival is proof of our capability and continuing focus on operational efficiency and supply chain resilience.”

Patrick Terminals would like to extend its gratitude to the Port of Melbourne, the Port Phillip Sea Pilots, Ports Victoria and Svitzer for their pivotal roles in ensuring the safe and smooth docking of this record-breaking vessel. This collaboration demonstrates the strength and reliability of Melbourne’s maritime infrastructure.

Media contact – Sarah Dennis 0418 653 863

The post Media Release – 23/10 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 19^th August 2024

Synergies Analysis Confirms Container Terminal Charges are not a driver of Cost of Living pressures

Patrick Terminals, Australia’s leading container terminal operator, today expressed concern at recent political and media commentary that increases in container terminal charges have contributed to the cost-of-living pressures.

Recent analysis completed by Synergies Economic Consulting observes that the operating margin of stevedores contributes approximately $0.40 per week (0.016%) to average household expenditure, an amount that cannot be credibly maintained to have an effect on cost-of-living pressures.

The causes of cost-of-living pressures lie elsewhere: in higher mortgage costs, and in the increase cost of services such as health, education, insurance and financial services.

The analysis shows that overall import supply chain costs represent approximately 7% of the total cost of goods imported into Australia. Of that 7%, container terminal fees (quayside and landside) account for only around 8%, implying that total container terminal fees account for less than 1% of the total cost of imported goods.

Synergies modelling also identifies that overall import supply chain costs have reduced by around 50% in real terms over the last two decades and that it is investment by container terminal operators that has made an important contribution to this reduction.

Michael Jovicic, CEO of Patrick Terminals said, “Patrick Terminals has invested close to $1 billion in terminal infrastructure and equipment, delivering capacity and efficiency improvements that have resulted in a major reduction of real costs.

Investment in our landside operations have unlocked further supply chain cost reductions through more efficient truck servicing. Our current focus on developing rail capacity represents the next area of opportunity for further supply chain savings in the future.”

The Synergies report concludes that it is misleading to suggest that cost-of-living pressures can be alleviated by intervening in the market for container terminal services.

We are pleased to confirm that Patrick Terminals has formally committed to enhancements to the Voluntary Pricing Protocol for landside fees following engagement with Freight Victoria. We look forward to these enhancements being published by Freight Victoria soon.

Patrick Terminals remains committed to enhancements that could support shippers to make more informed business decisions.

Patrick Terminals also welcomes continued engagement with industry bodies on Patrick’s ongoing landside investment program and efficiency benefits.

Media contact – Sarah Dennis 0418 653 863

The post Media Release – 19/08 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 12^th April 2024

Sydney Autostrad Botany Rail Expansion wins innovation gong at IPA awards

The Sydney Autostrad Botany Rail Expansion (SABRE) was named the winner of the Innovation Excellence Category at the 2024 Infrastructure Partnerships Australia Awards in Melbourne last night.

A joint initiative between NSW Ports and Patrick Terminals, the project integrated a world-first fully automated on-dock rail terminal (AutoRail) with an automated straddle-operated (AutoStrad) container terminal at Port Botany, creating the world’s first fully automated container exchange on and off rail wagons.

Using innovative design and automated, integrated technology, the four-year $190m project incorporates four 600m long rail sidings and three Automated Rail Mounted Gantry (ARMG) cranes, which automatically load and unload containers.

The new rail operations enable Patrick Terminals to handle up to 500,000 TEUs (shipping containers) annually on rail. Subject to demand, three additional ARMG cranes will be added to the new sidings to ultimately deliver more than 1 million TEU annual capacity, up from the 200,000 TEU capacity of the original rail terminal.

NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas said tonight’s win was testament to the collaboration between the two organisations to deliver a world-first project, which will reap benefits throughout the supply chain.

“Not only has this project increased rail capacity at the terminal, it has also improved efficiency through reduced train turnaround times,” Ms Calfas said.

“Credit must go to the project and operational teams from NSW Ports and Partick Terminals, who have delivered a world class project, while ensuring rail operations were able to continue during construction and commissioning.

“We have a goal of moving 3m TEU by rail annually and the delivery of Project SABRE marks a significant step towards achieving this goal.”

Patrick Terminals CEO Michael Jovicic acknowledged the efforts of all involved in bringing the project to life.

“Receiving this award is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our project team and valued partners who have delivered this world-class project,” Mr Jovicic said.

“Project SABRE’s success not only expands our rail capacity and capability but also establishes Patrick Terminals – Sydney AutoStrad as the new global standard for automated container terminal operations.
 

Media contact – Sarah Dennis 0418 653 863

The post Media Release – 12/04 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 8^th March 2024

Patrick Terminals introduces first electric terminal trucks into WA terminal operations with support of ARENA Funding

Patrick Terminals is pleased to announce the introduction of nine electric terminal trucks and charging infrastructure into terminal operations in Fremantle. The project is a priority initiative of Patrick Terminals’ decarbonisation plan and is supported by receipt of $2.5 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of the Driving the Nation Program supporting investment in vehicle electrification.

This project marks an Australian first in the port industry’s transition towards electric vehicles, aligning with Patrick Terminals’ commitment to decarbonisation and ensuring the longevity of port operations in Fremantle.

Michael Jovicic, CEO Patrick Terminals conveyed the significance of the project as a positive step towards electrification and emissions reductions in the Patrick Terminals Fremantle operations, “The project, supported by allocation of $2.5 million from ARENA funding, allows Patrick Terminals to lead the port industry’s transition to electric vehicles, deploying nine cutting-edge battery electric terminal trucks and fast chargers at our Fremantle operations. The introduction of electric terminal equipment at our Fremantle operations is an exciting initiative that demonstrates our ongoing commitment to investing capital in our Fremantle terminal to support longevity of port operations whilst also aligning with our commitment to decarbonising our operations.”

Media contact – Sarah Dennis 0418 653 863

The post Media Release – 08/03 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 2^nd November 2023

OptiBook to launch at Patrick Terminals Melbourne

Patrick Terminals and OneStop are pleased to announce the introduction of OptiBook, a container management solution integrated with the OneStop Vehicle Booking System.

OptiBook will provide Patrick Terminals’ customers with enhanced visibility of container status, expedited access to available containers, and an improved slot booking process. The new system will facilitate more efficient truck bookings for available containers that have been cleared and discharged, and provide a transparent process for confirming truck bookings. OptiBook will first be introduced at Patrick’s Melbourne terminal from Sunday, 3 December 2023.

OptiBook represents positive advancements in landside container management, using geofencing technology and providing real-time visibility into container availability. OptiBook also integrates with the OneStop Deliver App, a user-friendly platform designed to provide carriers with access to real-time communications, seamless job allocation and eliminate cumbersome manual processes. OneStop has designed OptiBook to incorporate feedback from landside operators.

Sam Askin, CEO OneStop, said: “We are delighted to introduce the OptiBook platform at Patrick Terminals in Melbourne. OptiBook is an exciting solution designed to modernise and streamline container transportation management. OneStop looks forward to partnering with industry to roll out the OptiBook solution.”

Michael Jovicic, CEO Patrick Terminals, said: “OneStop has developed a container booking system that will help to optimise landside container management, and we are pleased to collaborate with them to bring this innovation to the market. OptiBook will offer enhanced container visibility, real-time booking options based on container availability, resulting in a reduction in dwell time and improved truck flow through our terminals, all of which will optimise our landside operations. It’s a win-win for transport operators, truck drivers and our terminal team. We look forward to the go-live in December.”

Transport operators will shortly receive documentation and support for transition to the new booking system. Carriers will also be provided with detailed instructions for downloading and using the OneStop Deliver App.

Media contact – Sarah Dennis 0418 653 863

The post Media Release – 02/11 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 27^th July 2023

Patrick Terminals Leads the Way with Hybrid Straddle Investment

Melbourne, Australia: Patrick Terminals, Australia’s leading terminal operator, has announced its plan to invest in ten Kalmar hybrid straddles for their Melbourne terminal, positioning Patrick Terminals as the first container terminal operator in Australia to invest in the latest Kalmar hybrid technology. The new straddles are expected to be commissioned in 2024.

This investment is part of Patrick Terminals’ commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainability. The new Kalmar hybrid straddles can reduce fuel consumption by up to 40%, compared to equivalent diesel-powered machines and will support Patrick Terminals’ decarbonisation strategy.

“We are proud to be the first container terminal operator in Australia to invest in the Kalmar hybrid straddles and set new benchmarks for more environmentally friendly container handling,” says Michael Jovicic, CEO, Patrick Terminals. “As a leader in the industry, we understand the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and promoting environmentally responsible practices. Together with our trusted partner, Kalmar, we have a shared dedication to building a more sustainable industry. By investing in these hybrid straddles, we are making a strong commitment towards our decarbonisation journey.”

The new hybrid straddles from Kalmar are designed to be highly efficient and reliable, with low emissions and noise levels. The hybrid straddles feature advanced technology that enables them to operate on electric power, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

“Kalmar is very pleased to continue the excellent collaboration with Patrick Terminals. We are delighted with the order of the first ten hybrid straddle carriers for Patrick Terminals, Melbourne. The hybrid straddles, which can cut fuel consumption by up to 40% compared to equivalent diesel-powered machines, will play an important role in supporting Patrick Terminals with their decarbonisation strategy.” says Allan Baker, Sales Director APAC Horizontal Transportation, Kalmar.

Media contact:

Sarah Dennis | Patrick Terminals | +61 418 653 863

The post Media Release – 27/07 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 21^st February 2023

Rail Capacity Boosted by More than 30% at Patrick Sydney AutoRail Terminal

Patrick Terminals has boosted capacity at Patrick Sydney AutoRail Terminal with an increase from 42 to 56 trains per week to deliver more than 30% increase in available capacity.

Since September 2021, Patrick Terminals has invested in landside infrastructure and capacity to improve efficiency in freight movements to and from the port. The Patrick Sydney AutoRail Terminal has been a significant investment of $190 million between NSW Ports and Patrick Terminals to drive efficiencies through the Patrick Port Botany terminal and support the NSW Government strategy to increase freight on rail. The project has included investment commitments of $120 million from NSW Ports to deliver ‘on-dock’ rail infrastructure and $70 million from Patrick Terminals to deliver automated rail operating equipment.

Michael Jovicic, CEO Patrick Terminals said: “Patrick Terminals has invested significantly in landside capability with a focus on increasing efficient movement of freight to and from our Sydney terminal.

“Our Patrick Sydney AutoRail Terminal has delivered a world-first automated integration the moves containers directly to and from our rail terminal to our quay line. We have implemented an automated solution that has not been achieved anywhere else in the world.

“We are now at a stage in our project where we have increased capacity by introducing additional rail windows to allow for an increase in trains that can call at our Sydney terminal each week.

“And we aren’t finished yet as Patrick Terminals continues to invest further in enhancing our Sydney operations with investment in truck grid improvements including the deployment of automated truck handling, expansion of our rail sidings to 600m and investing in locomotive leading infrastructure.”

The Patrick Terminals – Sydney AutoStrad, that was recognised as the 2022 Terminal of the Year at the Shipping and Maritime Industry Awards, is the most advanced automated rail terminal in Australia, supporting movement of trucks off congested roads and providing a more sustainable solution for freight movements.

Media contact:

Sarah Dennis | Patrick Terminals | +61 418 653 863

The post Media Release – 21/02 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.

Last Updated: 10^th January 2023

Patrick Terminals’ Statement on the Productivity Commission’s Final Report on Lifting productivity at Australia’s container ports

The amendments to the Productivity Commission’s Final Report reflect the significant feedback provided by industry participants on key matters of landside fees and measurement of productivity at Australia’s container ports. The Productivity Commission’s largely maintained recommendations on workplace reform reveal the importance of these issues to the efficient functioning of Australia’s maritime logistics system.

Patrick Terminals has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the National Voluntary Guidelines and reasonable enhancements over time, including recently announced publication of landside performance metrics and establishment of representative landside groups.

Michael Jovicic, CEO, Patrick Terminals said: “Whilst Patrick considers that the voluntary regime recently endorsed by State and Federal transport and infrastructure ministers should be given reasonable and appropriate time to demonstrate its effectiveness before further review, I note that key elements of a potential industry code are broadly consistent with the voluntary approach and Patrick’s recent industry notification on landside fees.”

Patrick Terminals has advised that a restructuring of terminal operator fees to better reflect the capital requirements and operating costs of providing quayside and landside services to customers has occurred across the recent period. This restructuring has now largely delivered the improved cost causality outcomes sought on the East Coast. Fremantle arrangements will be reviewed in line with lease terms in 2024.

Patrick Terminals does not agree with the Productivity Commission’s approach to analysing market power or its finding that container terminal operators have exercised market power on the landside. Patrick notes the inconsistency with the Commission’s findings in relation to monopoly port operators.

Patrick Terminals’ significant investment program of close to $1 billion across the past 10 years continues to support Patrick’s superior terminal performance and development of further capacity. Industry will understand that shippers do actively seek the best overall value proposition offered by stevedores on both the quayside and the landside. Further, all contracts with landside operators are fully compliant with Australian competition and consumer law.

The industry has experienced significant disruption in recent years, with shipping line schedule integrity dropping from approximately 70% down to 10% during a period where labour availability was impacted due to COVID and industrial action on the waterfront. Despite these material difficulties, Patrick Terminals’ heavy investment in recent years for both landside and shipside infrastructure ensured that customer service levels were maintained overall.

Patrick Terminals agrees with the Productivity Commission’s observations that freight rates are normalising which will provide improved total supply chain costs to Australian shippers.

Patrick Terminals notes that the Final Report makes a range of important workplace recommendations, the majority of which are unaffected by recent changes to the Fair Work Act and remain at the core of securing the long-term productivity of Australia’s maritime logistics system.

Patrick Terminals awaits the Government’s detailed response to all aspects of the Final Report, including the recommended improvements to workplace arrangements to lift waterfront productivity.

Media contact:

Sarah Dennis | Patrick Terminals | +61 418 653 863

The post Media Release – 10/01 appeared first on Patrick Terminals.