Port of Newcastle

The Port of Newcastle (PoN) is a vital global trade gateway and Australia's largest bulk shipping port on the East Coast. It is undergoing an ambitious diversification strategy, including the development of a Clean Energy Precinct and a Deepwater Container Terminal, to secure the region's economic future.

The Port of Newcastle is a critical infrastructure asset with over 220 years of history. While traditionally the world's largest coal export port, PoN is actively pursuing a strategic vision to become Australia's first-choice East Coast port by 2030, driven by an ambitious diversification strategy.

Key projects include the development of the Clean Energy Precinct (CEP), positioning the Hunter as a hub for hydrogen and renewable energy, and the construction of the Newcastle Deepwater Container Terminal (NDCT). This transition is guided by a commitment to strong Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, including a target of Net Zero by 2040, ensuring the Port provides efficient, sustainable, and innovative logistics solutions for regional, state, and national economic growth.


How does your group link to STEM?
The Port of Newcastle has a strong, strategic link to STEM, focused on building the high-tech workforce needed for the Port's diversified and automated future. Specific initiatives include:

Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP): PoN sponsored and introduced this international high school competition to the Hunter, engaging students in designing, building, and racing hydrogen-powered cars, directly connecting them to the Port’s investment in renewable energy and the CEP.

Indigenous STEM Scholarship: A long-term partnership with the University of Newcastle to financially support Indigenous students pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) degrees.

Community Investment: The Port's community programs prioritise initiatives that directly support student engagement in STEM-related career pathways and empower women in industry and technical role


Why did your organisation decide to become a member of HISH?
Membership in the Hunter Innovation and Science Hub (HISH) is a critical step to formalise and amplify the Port's commitment to the region’s innovation and educational ecosystem. As the region's economic engine, PoN's technological diversification—particularly in the Clean Energy Precinct—demands a secure, highly skilled future workforce.

Joining HISH would enable the Port to:

Integrate Industry Needs: Provide direct input to the HISH network, ensuring regional educational priorities and grant funding (relevant to your role as Treasurer) are aligned with the high-demand technical skills required for port operations, hydrogen production, and automation.

Scale STEM Outreach: Collaborate with HISH members to leverage existing successful STEM programs, helping to amplify their reach and impact across the Hunter region's schools and communities.

Collaborate on Grant Funding: Partner with the HISH network on joint initiatives and grant applications to secure public and private funding necessary to accelerate the region's transition into a globally competitive innovation hub.

Ernesto Calderon Silva
www.pon.com.au
[email protected]
+61 2 4908 8200
Newcastle, NSW