[3] Established in 1984, it consists of a rail in-loading facility, coal handling and stockpile areas, and a single trestle jetty and conveyor connected to a berth and shiploader, located 2.75 km off-shore.

The road and railway to the port have been targeted at times by non-violent direct action by environmentalists opposed to coal exports.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Protection Authority (GBRMPA) advised minister Greg Hunt not to approve dredging for the Abbott Point coal port expansion.

[11][12] The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act was amended so that government does not have to consider expert advice before approving major developments such as mines and ports.

[17] Gilmour Space's rocket, Eris, is expected to make its first launch from Bowen Orbital Spaceport in January of 2025.