Mr Crakanthorp lodged a notice of motion on Wednesday, triggering a debate between Mr Crakanthorp and Minister for Ports Andrew Constance as a result.

The money was withdrawn last month after a stand-off between the Port of Newcastle and the government.

The port had sought an increase to the government contribution, arguing the project could not be delivered within the existing budget due to a "heated" construction market.

Mr Crakanthorp said the decision to drop the money had been "extremely disappointing" and was a blow to Hunter tourism operatives.

"Over the long term, this decision will have a devastating impact on Newcastle and the local tourism industry," he said.

"That is why I am calling on the government to provide the funding Newcastle deserves to deliver a world-class cruise ship terminal."

"I remain committed to working with the Port of Newcastle and all stakeholders to diversify the Port, supercharge the local economy and deliver jobs. I promised to raise this issue when Parliament resumed. I can assure my constituents that I will continue to fight for Newcastle."

The decision to take the money pledged in 2016 off the table came against the backdrop of a $55 million spend on cruise ship infrastructure in Eden, which falls within Mr Constance's electorate.