The Kwinana Freeway upgrade has reached a new stage with shortlisted contractors and consultants invited to submit detailed proposals for the $700 million project.
The major infrastructure program will widen sections of the busy Perth corridor and introduce smarter traffic management as the State prepares for continued growth in the southern metropolitan region.
Carrying about 100,000 vehicle movements every weekday, the Kwinana Freeway is one of Perth’s most important transport routes.
The upgrades are designed to address increasing congestion caused by population growth and the expansion of residential, commercial, and industrial development along the southern corridor.
Premier Roger Cook said progressing the procurement phase marked another step toward delivering a key election commitment.
“Congestion along the Kwinana Freeway during peak periods is a major source of frustration for members of my community, and commuters in Perth’s southern suburbs.”
“Reaching the next step of the election commitment to widen the Freeway helps meet my government’s priority to deliver quality infrastructure across our State through improving our road network.”
New lanes and traffic management planned
The Kwinana Freeway upgrade will focus on addressing several congestion points along the corridor.
Plans include adding new lanes, including a third lane in each direction along an 11-kilometre section between Russell Road and Mortimer Road.
Coordinated ramp signals will also be introduced on northbound on-ramps to manage merging traffic and smooth vehicle flow during peak periods.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the project aims to improve travel reliability and road safety.
“We’re transforming Kwinana Freeway to slash peak-hour travel times and improve safety for commuters using this busy transport corridor.”
“By adding additional lanes and smart traffic management, road users will experience a smoother and safer journey during peak periods.”
Addressing congestion and crash risk
Traffic congestion on the Kwinana Freeway has contributed to a high number of crashes in recent years.
Between January 2020 and December 2024, more than 1,960 crashes were reported along the corridor.
Most incidents were rear-end collisions, commonly linked to stop-start traffic conditions during busy periods.
Improving traffic flow and reducing sudden braking events are key goals of the upgrade.
The project will also include shared-path connections for cyclists and pedestrians, and new or modified noise walls in areas affected by freeway widening.
Construction expected from 2027
Concept designs outlining the additional lanes and other infrastructure improvements have already been developed and will continue to be refined through 2026.
Construction on the Kwinana Freeway upgrade is expected to begin in 2027, subject to regulatory approvals.
Saffioti said the project would also support economic development across Perth’s southern suburbs.
“This project will also unlock opportunities for more residential, commercial, and industrial development, supporting local jobs and families in our southern suburbs.”
The Australian and Western Australian governments jointly fund the project as part of a broader investment in transport infrastructure.