Works progress to futureproof & improve Rottnest Island infrastructure

The Western Australian Government is committed to futureproofing and improving infrastructure on Rottnest Island as preparations continue for another “bumper summer”. 

The tender process for new worker accommodation on the island is now open for submission, following a successful public consultation period. 

The $98.5 million worker accommodation development on Parker Point Road is the single largest investment by the State Government into Rottnest Island. 

This project will deliver up to 149 new units made up of four fully self-contained accommodation types – One Bed Studios, One Bedroom units, Two Bedroom units, and Three Bedroom units. Not only will this project support island businesses to attract more staff and provide better services, but it will also help free up more accommodation for visitors. 

The refurbishment at Stay Rottnest accommodation is also progressing well and a tender for major upgrades for Longreach Bay and Fay’s Bay self-contained units is open for submissions as well. 

Both the workers accommodation and Stay Rottnest accommodation projects are due to be completed in mid-2025, building on successful upgrades at South Thompson and Geordie Bay that delivered modernised kitchens and bathrooms, new furniture, fixtures and fittings, and improved outdoor amenities. 

More information on the tenders can be found on TendersWA. 

Other works being carried out on Rottnest Island include electrical system upgrades as part of the island’s $54.8 million renewable energy transformation. 

A request for proposal for a new Hybrid Electricity Generation System will soon be released, which will mark the next phase in achieving a target of 75 per cent renewable energy usage on the island. 

Alongside new cabling and power distribution works, the new power generation system will modernise Rottnest Island’s energy infrastructure and reduce its reliance on diesel power generation. 

“Rottnest Island is an iconic tourism destination, visited by hundreds of thousands of visitors and locals every year. 

“It’s vital we continue to futureproof and plan for the island’s growing popularity through investments in new worker accommodation, which will support local businesses and essential infrastructure like energy. 

“Of course, we also need to make sure we’re providing the best possible experience for visitors now, which is why we’re progressing with our program of upgrades across the Stay Rottnest accommodation across the island,” Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said. 

Meanwhile, late-night ferry services have already been introduced last month which allows visitors to experience Rottnest Island after dark, enjoy sunset views or grab dinner at the array of restaurants and eateries before returning to Perth. 

The late-night ferries are part of the preparation for the busy summer season, with the last ferry departing from the island at 9pm from Thursday to Sunday between November and January. From February to April next year, late-night ferries will also operate from Friday to Sunday. 

Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Rottnest Island Authority (1, 2, 3)