The Federal and WA governments are strengthening Western Australia’s supply chain resilience with a landmark $1.1 billion investment for crucial road connections to the proposed future Westport container terminal in Kwinana.
The Australian Government’s investment of $552 million will be delivered through the upcoming Federal Budget and matched by the WA Government.
The project will ensure the proposed Westport container terminal and redeveloped bulk terminal, as well as the wider Western Trade Coast, have the road connections required to boost long-term trade and economic growth, support housing supply, and improve productivity in the defence and critical minerals industries.
Funding will deliver the first stage of significant upgrades to Anketell Road including expanding the road to four lanes between Leath Road and Abercrombie Road and a grade separation at Rockingham Road.
This will significantly increase the efficiency of freight movements, reduce traffic for residents and support connection for future port expansions.
Anketell Road is an important freight route that is expected to become the heavy-vehicle route of choice linking Leath Road and the Kwinana Freeway.
These upgrades will shift heavy vehicle traffic away from residential areas to reduce congestion, improve safety and travel times on local roads.
The project will also support lower emissions through more efficient freight routing and reduced network delays.
Upgrades to Anketell Road will help drive economic development across WA’s premier strategic industrial area, the Western Trade Coast, to support the State’s economic diversification and long-term job creation.
This announcement builds on the significant infrastructure program being delivered by the two levels of government – including METRONET, the Tonkin Highway Corridor and the Outback Way.
The Australian Government has also committed $350 million towards upgrading the Kwinana Freeway, which will be essential in servicing the proposed Westport precinct.
To support the progression of the Westport program, the WA Government has committed a further $117.9 million in its upcoming State Budget. This includes:
> $24 million towards land acquisitions to enable road construction;
> $31.4 million for ongoing definition activities relating to marine and port infrastructure; and
> $61.6 million to maintain the Westport Program’s operations over the next four years.