We continue to monitor the impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which has resulted in suspension of flights at Brisbane Airport, extended closures of port terminal operations, and disruptions across supply chains. Below are the latest updates.

Key Updates

  • Brisbane Airport: All passenger flights have been suspended until further notice.
  • Port Terminals: All terminal operations will remain closed until at least Sunday, with most resuming on Monday, 10 March 2025.
  • Regulatory Adjustments: DAFF offices in Brisbane are closed, with alternative arrangements in place for export certifications.

Brisbane Airport & Cargo Terminal Operator (CTO) Updates

  • Brisbane Airport:(As of Friday 7 March, 6:35 AM AEST)
    • All flights suspended until further notice.
    • Operations will recommence once conditions are safe, terminals and runways are assessed, and airlines resume services.
    • Passengers should only come to the airport when advised by their airline.
  • CTO Updates:
    • Qantas Freight:
      • Closed from midday 6 March to midday 8 March 2025.
      • Only priority and must-ride freight will be uplifted until 10 March.
      • Storage fees waived from 6–9 March.
    • dnata & Menzies Aviation:
      • Closed until further notice due to flight cancellations.

Brisbane Port & Terminal Updates

  • Vessel Movements:
    • All inbound and outbound shipping suspended.
    • Tug operations ceased until conditions are safe.
    • Port operations expected to remain suspended until at least Sunday, 9 March.
  • Terminal Closures:
    • Patrick: Imports closed, potential reopening on Sunday, 9 March (pending shipping resumption).
    • DP World, Hutchison Ports, AAT: Imports closed, reopening Monday, 10 March 2025.
  • Empty Container Parks:
    • All facilities are now closed. Customers should check with providers for alternative arrangements.
  • Port of Brisbane Access:
    • Landside access remains open, but businesses must implement severe weather preparedness plans.

Regulatory & Government Agency Updates

  • DAFF Advisory – Brisbane Office Closures & Contingency Measures
    • Only essential services are operating on Friday, 7 March 2025.
    • Decisions on future closures will be made as the event unfolds.
    • Online and telephone services remain operational.
  • DAFF Export Certification Arrangements:
    • Brisbane office closed from 6–10 March 2025.
    • Exporters and freight forwarders must follow alternative certification arrangements.

National Coordination Mechanism (NCM) Preparedness Meeting – Key Risks & Disruptions

  • Port, Shipping & Transport Disruptions:
    • Queensland coastal ferry services paused.
    • Delays in reopening ports expected post-cyclone.
  • Aviation Disruptions:
    • Flights suspended at Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ballina, and Coffs Harbour.
    • Aircraft relocations underway.
  • Road & Rail Closures:
    • Flooding expected across major transport routes.
    • Queensland Rail suspending operations as the cyclone nears.
  • Supermarket & Fuel Supply Concerns:
    • Essential goods stockpiling in progress.
    • Bottled water supplies under strain.
    • Fuel access concerns for emergency vehicles.
  • Power & Telecommunications:
    • Widespread power outages expected.
    • Emergency generators prepared for critical infrastructure.
  • Flooding & Emergency Planning:
    • Major flood risks in Brisbane River, Wilsons River, and Richmond River.
    • Australian Defence Force (ADF) mobilized for recovery efforts.

Next Steps & Recommendations

  • Most terminal operations now expected to resume on Monday, 10 March 2025.
  • Patrick Terminal may resume operations on Sunday, 9 March, subject to shipping schedules.