- Two new ferry terminals approved to be constructed at Matilda Bay and Applecross
- Matilda Bay location determined to deliver best outcomes for the community following a multi-criteria site analysis and consultation with user groups
- Approval marks a major step forward in the largest ever expansion of Perth's ferry network, set to provide unprecedented access to the Swan River
- Formal tender for the design and construction of the two terminals to be released in early 2026
- METRONET on Swan part of the Cook Government's commitment to delivering a world-class public transport system for Western Australians
A landmark expansion of Perth's ferry network has been given the green light with development approval secured for two new ferry terminals at Matilda Bay and Applecross, paving the way for improved connectivity across the Swan River.
The Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) has today granted development approval for the two ferry terminals, as part of the first phase of the Cook Government's transformative METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion project.
The two development applications were lodged with the WAPC in September and were open for a three-week public comment period.
The development applications were also considered by the Environmental Protection Authority which determined the proposals did not require formal assessment.
The terminals will be the first delivered as part of the largest ever expansion to Perth's ferry network, which will see several new stops added and new electric ferries join the fleet over the lifespan of the project.
The Matilda Bay terminal, located centrally along Hackett Drive, will provide improved connectivity to The University of Western Australia Crawley campus, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre, and the surrounding riverfront area.
The location was selected following thorough consultation with a wide range of user groups and a comprehensive multi-criteria analysis of five sites.
This process considered a range of criteria, including environmental impacts, transport connectivity, the needs of both water and land users, and waterway safety and determined the Matilda Bay site delivered the best overall outcome.
The Applecross terminal will be located immediately north of the Raffles Hotel complexand will support the large and growing population living in high density housing throughout the Applecross and Mount Pleasant areas, boosting the area as a retail and entertainment destination.
Each new terminal will include a fixed jetty connecting to the shore, a sheltered waiting area, covered hinged jetty, and floating pontoon where passengers will board the ferries.
The new ferries will be fully accessible and incorporate passenger toilet facilities and bike storage, as well as external seating for passengers.
A Waterways Stakeholder Reference Group has been established, made up of key water user groups to provide ongoing advice to the State Government to ensure appropriate controls are developed so the waterways can continue to be shared safely by all users.
Twenty water-based organisations representing river users are part of the group, which has already held three meetings.
Early tender advice has been issued on the design and construction of the two ferry terminals with a formal tender to be released in early 2026.
Construction is expected to start later in the year.
Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Expanding ferry services on the Swan River has been a long-held ambition of our government and today marks an exciting step forward in the delivery of this incredible new public transport project for WA.
"With development approval for these two new ferry terminals secured, we can forge ahead with the first phase of METRONET on Swan, which will deliver better transport options and further activate the Swan River.
"These terminals will make it easier for locals and visitors to move around the city, connect with other public transport services, and enjoy Perth's beautiful riverfront.
"Importantly, this project will support tourism, local businesses, and encourage sustainable travel, while opening new opportunities for investment and development along the river.
"We'll continue to work collaboratively with key water users throughout the next stages of this project to ensure everyone can continue to safely enjoy the Swan River."
