Westport to proceed at Kwinana

A long-awaited decision about Perth’s future container port needs has been made after more than two years of consultation and deliberation.

As expected by many, the State Government has accepted the recommendation of the Westport Taskforce to proceed with a land-backed port aligned to Anketell Road in Kwinana.

The new port, which aims to be operational from 2032, will lead to the eventual closure of Fremantle Port, with two options under consideration as to how that transition will take place. One option sees a full transition to the new port early on in its life, while a second option would see Fremantle Port continue to operate and phase out its handling of freight containers by 2047.

A business case will be developed to determine which of these two options will be adopted, with $97 million allocated the begin a program of works that will begin preparation for a new port.

Some of that money will go towards planning works for the upgrade and extension of key transport routes servicing the new port, including Anketell Road.

The supply and use of industrial land at the Kwinana Industrial Area and around Perth more generally will become vital in supporting the new port’s operations.

Property Council WA has been an active participant in the Westport consultation work, hosting a number of briefings throughout the consultation process since it began in late 2017. Following last week’s announcement, another member briefing is being organised with invitations provided to Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan and Westport Taskforce Project Director, Tim Collins. Places are strictly limited, so members are encouraged to contact Nick Warland to secure remaining spots.

Further information on the announcement and the Westport Taskforce’s work can be found at their website here.