The next step to improve access and boost the attractiveness of the Western Trade Coast in Perth was announced this week with the Western Australian government calling for expressions of interest on a project to upgrade Kwinana Freeway.
Described as one of Perth’s critical transport corridors Kwinana Freeway handles about 100,000 vehicles every week day.
The $700 million upgrade is set to target key pinch points including:
- A new lane in each direction between Russell Road and Mortimer Road (increasing from two lanes to three)
- A new southbound lane between Roe Highway and Berrigan Drive (increasing from four lanes to five)
- A new northbound lane from Russell Road to Beeliar Drive (increasing from three lanes to four), and
- New Coordinated Ramp Signals on northbound on-ramps between Safety Bay Road and Roe Highway, to smooth the flow of traffic on the Freeway at busy times.
The upgrade is jointly funded by the State and Federal government, $350 million each.
Community and stakeholder engagement, utility surveys, geotechnical and environmental investigations are already underway and construction is expected to begin in early 2027 and be completed in 2029, subject to regulatory approvals.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook says, as a resident living south of the Swan River he understands how frustrating it is to be stuck in congestion along Kwinana Freeway.
“My government made a commitment during the election to make driving along the Kwinana Freeway easier – and by engaging with industry now, we’re getting on with the job of fixing it,” Cook says.
“These upgrades will do more than just ensure everyone in Perth’s south can easily use the roads they rely on to get to work or school, they will also support development of the Western Trade Coast and support my government’s Made in WA plan.”
Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Catherine King says the freeway is critical for ensuring the efficient movement of people and goods through the city.
“This upgrade will support jobs and economic growth and will deliver improvements in travel times, traffic flows, freight productivity and reliability,” she says.
More information on the procurement process is available at www.tenders.wa.gov.au