WA Government to invest $273million for new Kwinana container port
The Western Australian Government is moving forward with its plans of building a new container port in Kwinana, allocating $273 million for detailed planning. The funding will cover design work, securing approvals, land purchases, and refining construction and cost strategies.
Premier Roger Cook stated that Westport is vital for WA’s economy and jobs. Without it, the rising trade volumes may overwhelm Fremantle Port which could increase the costs for everyone.
The Kwinana port is estimated to cost $7.2 billion and will include:
- New port facilities in Kwinana between Barter and Mason Roads
- Freight routes via Anketell and Thomas Roads connecting to Tonkin Highway
- Upgrades to rail networks linking Kwinana with key logistics hubs
- A shipping channel for larger, more efficient vessels
The new port aims to:
- Secure WA’s trade capacity for the next 100 years
- Reduce costs for imports and exports
- Increase rail-based container transport to 30%, cutting road congestion and emissions
- Create thousands of jobs during construction and operation
- Open up prime land in Fremantle for redevelopment, supporting 55,000 residents
According to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti, Westport will future-proof WA’s trade system, keep costs low and at the same time create jobs and support industrial growth.
