A Buffer Definition Study recently completed by Fremantle Ports will be used to assist the
future planning of the Port of Fremantle, to guide land use planning around the Inner Harbour
and to promote a continuing good relationship between the port and its neighbours.

Fremantle Ports Chief Executive Officer, Kerry Sanderson, said the aim was to promote
compatibility between port planning and planning in areas around the port.

"There will be no impact on existing buildings," Kerry Sanderson said.

"The main effect of the proposed buffers will be to set design criteria, where necessary,
for proposed new developments. In some situations, for example, there may be a requirement
for thicker glazing and high-standard window seals for future developments, to reduce impacts
such as noise and odour. Some land uses not compatible with being located close to operational
areas of the port; for example child care, aged care and hospitals would be outside the planning guidelines.

"Apart from this, the potential for business and residential developments will not be affected, and it is not retrospective.

"The buffer zones, when incorporated into local town planning schemes, will help to minimise impacts,
improve the amenity of local residents and promote harmonious co-existence," said Kerry Sanderson.

Fremantle Ports undertook the Buffer Definition Study under the State Industrial Buffer Policy which recognises
the need to protect and provide for the long-term security of key Western Australian industrial areas.

A brochure explaining the study, what it means to residents and how they can comment on the process of
implementation, has been delivered to all households within the proposed buffer zones. This co-incides with
the advertising of the Fremantle City Council's City Planning Scheme and draft Buffer Policy.

The East Fremantle Town Council has integrated the Buffer Definition Study in its new Town Planning Scheme
which will be advertised soon.

Written submissions from the public should be addressed to:

Buffer Definition Study
c/o Fremantle Ports
1 Cliff St
Fremantle WA 6160

The closing date is 17 October, 2003.