The METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion project has reached an important milestone, with a keel laying ceremony officially marking the start of vessel construction.
In a first for Western Australia, five new electric ferries are being designed and built by Henderson-based shipbuilder Echo Marine Group as part of the $107 million project.
The jointly funded project by the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments will deliver the ferries and related infrastructure.
Each vessel has been designed to deliver a modern, accessible, and comfortable passenger experience, featuring onboard toilet facilities, bike storage, and external seating for passengers.
These new electric ferries will be able to fit up to 100 passengers, have a maximum operating speed of 25 knots, and are designed to produce a low wake.
The project is part of the Cook Labor Government’s commitment to supporting WA manufacturing and generating quality local jobs. Around 130 Echo Marine employees, including apprentices, are expected to work on the construction of the vessels.
Electric ferries are already operating in waterways overseas, offering a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective transport solution.
Their introduction to Perth will transform how people travel across the Swan River, with the new ferry services expected to be operational from late 2027.
Tenders are also currently being sought for construction of new ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay, closing 11 August 2026.
The Cook Labor Government is looking for a single contractor with demonstrated expertise in the design and construction of marine infrastructure to deliver both terminals, ensuring design consistency across the two sites and enhancing construction efficiencies.
The WA Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure will oversee the design and construction of the two terminals.
The Public Transport Authority is also progressing tenders for the construction of a new additional passenger boarding area at the Elizabeth Quay ferry terminal, as well as a new shore-based facility at Matilda Bay with public toilets, a bike locker area and electrical infrastructure to support the operation of the ferries.
Upgrades are also progressing to the Barrack Square Jetty to allow for the overnight berthing of four ferries.
As stated by WA Premier Roger Cook:
“My government is committed to making more things here in Western Australia because it’s how we diversify the WA economy so it remains the strongest in the nation and ensure it is resilient to future challenges.
“The new electric METRONET on Swan ferry project harnesses our State’s shipbuilding sector by supporting local businesses and creating local jobs and training opportunities.
“At its heart will be the 130 workers involved in manufacturing these ferries, including fabrication, mechanical, electrical, and fit-out trades apprentices.”
As stated by Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“The Albanese Government is proud to invest in the infrastructure that Perth needs to reduce congestion and better connect communities.
“This is an exciting step forward for public transport in Western Australia that will service the state for many years to come.
“Electric ferries are being successfully used overseas, and their introduction represents a significant milestone for Australia’s public transport network.”
Quotes As put by WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“It’s incredibly exciting to see construction get underway on our new electric ferry fleet that will underpin the biggest ever expansion of ferry services on the Swan River.
“By building electric ferries in WA for the first time we’re not only supporting local jobs but strengthening our State’s shipbuilding capability for the future.
“These five locally designed and constructed ferries will be more accessible and comfortable for passengers, providing more public transport choice for daily commuters and visitors to our city.
“This investment is part of our government’s commitment to delivering world-class public transport for Western Australians.”
Quotes As put by WA Manufacturing Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
“Made in WA means WA workers get the job.
“By choosing a local manufacturer for our new fleet of ferries, we’re supporting great WA businesses and diversifying our economy for the future.
“When commuters are riding these ferries, they can feel proud that they were built by Western Australians in a workshop in Henderson, not a factory overseas.”
Quotes As put by Federal Member for Tangney Sam Lim:
“Electric ferries are transforming our region by creating jobs, boosting safety and efficiency and removing even more traffic from our roads.
“This is a really exciting project for our community, and I am looking forward to seeing these important works get underway.”
Quotes As put by Cockburn MLA David Scaife:
“The Cook Labor Government is proud to be supporting local manufacturing by building our new electric ferries right here in Henderson.
“Building ferries in WA for the first time will support more than 100 local jobs and help further diversify our economy.”
Quotes As put by Bateman MLA Kim Giddens:
“We’re proud to be delivering new modern electric ferries that will transform the way people travel around our city.
“METRONET on Swan will provide more public transport options for our growing community and better infrastructure for passengers choosing to jump on a ferry.”
