Following the release last week of a feasibility study into a proposed new abattoir in Northwest Queensland, the Australian Agricultural Co remains committed to its proposed new plant near Darwin.

In a press release, AA Co managing director David Farley said Darwin remained the preferred option for AA Co at this time for several reasons.

Location and labour opportunity were just two: the proposed plant would be just 50km from an international seaport for exporting meat to key Asian markets, and close to a major capital city to attract and retain workers and other support services needed for the proposed facility.

“In addition, the Darwin proposal also offers very significant savings in cattle transport, animal welfare and carbon benefits,” he said.

“AA Co has been actively pursuing the Darwin option and is currently working through the public environmental assessment and development application process with the Territory Government and other stakeholders.”

“AA Co has also received assurances of support from both the Territory and Federal Governments but are still awaiting formal public funding commitments for the essential public infrastructure required, including power, water and gas connections to the site as well as road, rail and port upgrades.”

Mr Farley said the Board of AA Co is yet to make its Final Investment Decision on the Darwin abattoir, which is contingent on completing the necessary approvals and securing Territory and Federal Government funding commitments for the key public infrastructure required.

“However, until that final investment decision is made, we would not rule out Cloncurry or other possible options,” he said.