The Albanese and Cook Labor Governments have today confirmed that the new Fremantle Traffic Bridge will open ahead of schedule on 1 November 2026.

A community celebration will be held on Sunday, 1 November to mark the historic milestone, with attendees able to walk across the new bridge before it officially opens to traffic later that evening.

The old Fremantle Traffic Bridge was closed on 1 February 2026, with the closure originally expected to continue for up to 12 months and the new bridge earmarked to open in the first half of 2027.

Despite a challenging construction environment, an innovative method for fast-tracked construction has enabled an early opening.

Ahead of the opening, work is continuing to complete the road across the new bridge, with terracing and landscaping works progressing on the southern side of the bridge adjacent to Beach Street.

Opening the new gateway to Fremantle in November will improve connectivity to the port city ahead of summer and the Christmas trading period, supporting local businesses and visitation.

Finishing works will continue on the bridge and surrounding areas after the opening, with the bridge’s lighting to be finalised during that time.

This innovative and unique program of architectural and feature lighting, funded by the WA Government, will celebrate stories of the crossing that date back thousands of years, recognising the historical, cultural and spiritual significance of the area.

Community members will get a sneak peek of the lighting with testing planned to start in mid-September.

Following the bridge opening, the temporary road network changes made prior to the bridge closure will be removed, including access to and from Fremantle via Canning Highway and other initiatives that helped keep the network flowing during the closure.

Further details about the community event will be provided in the coming weeks.

Anyone interested in attending is encouraged to sign up via the Main Roads website: Swan River Crossings | Main Roads Western Australia.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“This is a significant investment in Western Australia’s transport infrastructure and a great outcome for the Fremantle community.

“The new Fremantle Traffic bridge will deliver benefits for the community for decades to come.

“Whether you’re heading into Fremantle for a day out, travelling to work or school, or making your way to Cottesloe beach, the new bridge will provide a safer, more reliable connection across the Swan River.”

Quotes attributable to WA Deputy Premier and Minister for Transport and Major Infrastructure Rita Saffioti:

“We’re proud to be opening the new Fremantle Traffic Bridge early for the Western Australian community as part of our commitment to delivering quality infrastructure across our State.

“This new state-of-the-art bridge will restore a critical connection to Fremantle that will help relieve pressure on the surrounding road network in time for summer.

“Delivering the new bridge months ahead of schedule is a massive achievement, thanks to the strong collaboration and innovation of the project team.

“But this project would not have been such a success without the patience and cooperation of the community, local businesses and freight industry who have all done their part to keep the road network moving.

“Opening this bridge will be a historic moment for Fremantle and we look forward to celebrating alongside the community in November.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Fremantle Josh Wilson:

“The opening of the new Fremantle Traffic Bridge on 1 November will be a landmark moment for our city and a milestone many people have been looking forward to for years.

“As the largest and most significant infrastructure project delivered in Fremantle for decades, this bridge represents a generational investment in our city's future.

“The design of the new Fremantle Traffic Bridge recognises the prominence of this gateway into Fremantle, combining 21st Century function with a distinctive look that reflects the character and setting of our port city.

“Opening ahead of schedule is a tremendous achievement by everyone involved in delivering this complex project, and I look forward to joining the community in celebrating this historic occasion.”

Quotes attributable to Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk:

“After years of planning, it’s fantastic to see our new traffic bridge ready to open ahead of schedule.

“It’ll be an integral part of Fremantle’s future, improving the connection between communities on either side of the river.

“The construction period has required patience from residents, businesses and the wider community, so I’m delighted they will have the opportunity to be among the first to walk across the new bridge.”

Quotes attributable to Bicton MLA Lisa O’Malley:

“The new Fremantle Traffic Bridge is a massive investment in our community that will service local families, businesses and visitors for decades to come.

“We thank the community for their patience while we have delivered this once in a generation project and encourage everyone to be a part of this historic milestone.”