WA
The WA Government is calling on local industry to design a new fleet of modern vessels as part of its plans to expand ferry services on the Swan River.
An Expression of Interest (EOI) process begins today, with industry being invited to put forward designs, as the Government prepares a business case for the expanded services.
“As part of the business case development, we’re keen to see what innovative and modern ferry designs are available, and importantly, what capacity there is to manufacture the ferries right here in Western Australia,” said Transport Minister, Rita Saffioti.
“Feedback from the EOI will help us better understand the capability of the local vessel industry and progress next steps in planning an expanded ferry system.
“We’re seeing enormous growth in the number of people using the existing ferry services. Last financial year saw record patronage on the ferries, and I have no doubt there will be huge support for an expanded service.”
The EOI provides a number of parameters for the design of the new ferry fleet including:
- vessels up to 25 metres in length;
- a minimum of 130 seats, including 40-50 external seats;
- passenger toilet facilities;
- bike storage; and
- options for electric powered vessels.
The Government has also announced its plan to expand ferry services would be rolled out in a number of phases to ensure services remained sustainable as new ferries were progressively manufactured.
While exact locations for new ferry stops is still to be determined, the Government is investigating options for new stops in Applecross, The University of Western Australia (serviced by a stop on the Matilda Bay foreshore), the Causeway Bridge precinct (serviced by a stop at Point Fraser), Burswood Park, Optus Stadium and Claisebrook Cove.
Other stops that would be considered as part of future expansions include Belmont, Belmont Park, Rivervale and Maylands. A stop is also being considered as part of future upgrades to Canning Bridge.
There are currently three Transperth ferries that operate between Elizabeth Quay and Mends Street Jetty in South Perth, every 15 minutes during peak hours.
The EOI for ferry design will be available from the Tenders WA website, closing 25 November 2024 (www.tenders.wa.gov.au).
