Oakajee firms slam Labor

Mining companies hoping to use the planned Oakajee port have slammed Labor's decision to axe it if elected, accusing it of threatening billions of dollars in investment to appease city commuters.

"WA Labor is prioritising the city over the Mid West and the future development of one of the State's most important regions," Geraldton Iron Ore Alliance chief executive Rob Jefferies said.

Oakajee Port and Rail chief executive John Langoulant said the project needed government involvement - including finance - if it was to proceed.

Shadow transport minister Ken Travers reiterated the proposed $6 billion port was originally envisaged as a fully privately funded venture, until intervention by Premier Colin Barnett.

Mr Travers said Oakajee was unlikely to get up in the next five years because of funding difficulties for mines in the region.

Labor was committed to working on expanding Geraldton port for existing companies in the interim.

Peter Kerr, Gareth Parker