Builder sought for $107m METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion project

The Australian and Western Australian Governments are getting on with the expansion of Perth’s ferry network, with tenders now out to market for the construction of new ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay.

The jointly funded $107 million METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion project will transform connectivity on the Swan River by providing improved transport options for locals and visitors.

The Albanese Government is also committing an additional $10 million to plan and design a future extension of the network to potential new stops in key riverside locations including Maylands, Point Fraser, Burswood, Optus Stadium, Claisebrook, Belmont and Rivervale.

“The Australian Government is proud to support the delivery of modern, efficient ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay, providing improved transport connections for Perth’s growing communities.

“Our investment will ensure these new terminals are equipped with the facilities passengers rely on for a smooth journey, accessible waiting areas and greater connectivity with key destinations like universities, hospitals and public transport,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said.

“This is an important next step for a new ferry terminal at Applecross.

“METRONET on Swan will deliver greater transportation options in Tangney, including for students headed to UWA and for people coming to Tangney for business and tourism, while also helping to provide an alternative to driving on the Kwinana Freeway.

“This investment builds upon the $5.4 billion Federal investment in METRONET,” Federal Member for Tangney Sam Lim MP said.

A single contractor with demonstrated expertise in designing and building marine infrastructure is now being sought to deliver both terminals. This approach will ensure that the design is consistent across the two sites while enhancing construction efficiencies.

More information on the tenders can be found on the TendersWA website.

Both Applecross and Matilda Bay terminals will feature a fixed jetty, sheltered passenger waiting area, gangway and ferry berths. Provisions for electric ferry charging infrastructure will also be delivered at the Matilda Bay terminal.

The Matilda Bay terminal – located centrally at Hackett Drive – will provide better connections to The University of Western Australia Crawley campus, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre as well as the surrounding riverfront area.

On the other hand, the Applecross terminal that’s located on the north side of the existing Raffles Complex will improve connectivity in the growing urban precinct, and it is within walking distance of the Canning Bridge Station.

“This is another exciting step forward for METRONET on Swan, the biggest ever expansion of Perth’s ferry network which will transform public transport connectivity across our city.

“This project is already supporting local manufacturing with five new ferries being built in Henderson, with construction of the new terminals set to support even more quality jobs.

“It’s part of the Cook Labor Government’s commitment to delivering a world-class public transport system that is affordable and accessible for all Western Australians,” WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said.

“The Swan River is one of Perth’s most beautiful and important natural assets.

“Investing in public transport is good for our environment and our community,” Senator for Western Australia Varun Ghosh said.

The design and construction of both terminals will be overseen by the WA Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure.

Building on the Swan Ferry Service Expansion project, the Public Transport Authority is concurrently progressing the construction of a new additional passenger boarding area at the existing Elizabeth Quay ferry terminal and upgrades to the Barrack Square Jetty to enable four ferries for overnight berthing.

Works at Matilda Bay will also involve constructing new toilet and charging facilities, including a new bus/ferry interchange embayment on Hackett Drive.

This follows the awarding of a contract to Echo Marine Group in December to design and build the five new electric ferries required to operate the expanded service, which is anticipated to start in late 2027.

“A new ferry terminal at Applecross will help connect our community to the city and key destinations like UWA and QEII.

“Improved public transport links will support the liveability of our growing suburbs and will help to bring more people to our local businesses,” Bateman MLA Kim Giddens said.

“The Cook Labor Government is committed to delivering world-class public transport options that keep our communities connected and moving.

“METRONET on Swan is key to this vision and will support tourism, local businesses and encourage more investment along our beautiful Swan River,” Ayor Makur Chuot MLC said.

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Government of Western Australia – Media Statements