EVALUATION COMPLETE
Fremantle Port handles most of Western Australia’s container trade and is forecast to reach its maximum practical capacity by 2040, with limited options for further expansion due to constrained industrial land and ageing assets. The Westport (Kwinana port development) proposal represents a proactive solution to support continued growth in container trade for Western Australia, with operations to transition to Kwinana. This transition will maintain national trade competitiveness, improve port efficiency and ensure resilient, high‑capacity freight networks aligning with the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy. The Westport proposal also supports the objectives of the Infrastructure Policy Statement by enabling sustainable urban development and future-proofing supply chain capacity for Western Australia and the nation. The proposal seeks to ensure port infrastructure keeps pace with projected trade growth, population expansion, and evolving supply chain demands.
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION
This program proposal involves relocating Western Australia’s primary container port from Fremantle to a new facility at Kwinana, supported by upgraded road, rail, and intermodal infrastructure to ensure efficient, resilient, and sustainable freight supply chains. The proposal will also incorporate replacement of the existing Kwinana Bulk Terminal and new roll-on roll-off and general cargo wharf facilities.
The Australian Government should note this proposal as a potential future investment opportunity within the 2-4 year pipeline.
OPPORTUNITIES AND OUTCOMES
This proposal has the potential to:
- Enhance trade resilience and productivity – the provision of new, scalable port capacity through Westport would avoid the risk of costly supply chain bottlenecks and ensure Western Australia’s economy remains globally competitive.
- Transform urban areas – relocating the container port to Kwinana would provide an opportunity to transform Fremantle’s Inner Harbour into a mixed-use precinct, supporting housing, jobs, and amenity for the community.
- Deliver sustainable and future-proofed infrastructure – the proposed port development at Kwinana would be designed to accommodate larger vessels, incorporate automation, and deliver a net zero supply chain, supporting national decarbonisation goals and the adoption of innovative technologies.
- Improve safety and community outcomes – dedicated freight corridors and infrastructure supporting higher rail mode share would support a reduction in heavy vehicle movements through residential areas, improving road safety and reducing congestion, noise, and emissions.
Proponent to continue progressing planning activities for the Westport program, including:
- environmental and heritage approvals
- geotechnical investigations
- value-engineering and other design refinement activities to refine cost estimates
- ongoing stakeholder and community engagement
- procurement planning.