Tenders are now being sought for construction of new ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay, marking a major milestone in the Albanese and Cook Labor governments' landmark expansion of Perth's ferry network.

The jointly funded $107 million METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion project is set to transform connectivity on the Swan River, improving public transport options for locals and visitors.

A further $10 million has been invested by the Australian Government to plan and design a future extension of the network to potential new stops in key riverside locations such as Maylands, Point Fraser, Burswood, Optus Stadium, Claisebrook, Belmont and Rivervale.

The Cook Labor Government is looking for a single contractor with demonstrated expertise in the design and construction of marine infrastructure to deliver both terminals, ensuring design consistency across the two sites and enhancing construction efficiencies.

Both terminals will feature a fixed jetty, sheltered passenger waiting area, gangway and ferry berths. At Matilda Bay, provision will also be made for electric ferry charging infrastructure.

The Matilda Bay terminal, located centrally along Hackett Drive, will provide improved connections to The University of Western Australia Crawley campus, Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre and the surrounding riverfront area.

The new ferry terminal at Applecross, located on the north side of the existing Raffles Complex, will better connect this growing urban precinct and is within walking distance of the Canning Bridge Station.

The WA Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure will oversee the design and construction of the two terminals.

Concurrently, the Public Transport Authority is progressing the construction of a new additional passenger boarding area at the existing Elizabeth Quay ferry terminal, as well as upgrades to the Barrack Square Jetty to allow for the overnight berthing of four ferries.

Works will also include the construction of new toilet and charging facilities at Matilda Bay, including a new bus/ferry interchange embayment on Hackett Drive. 

It comes after a contract was awarded in December to Echo Marine Group to design and construct the five new electric ferries required to operate the expanded service, which is expected to start in late 2027.

The call for tenders will open on Tuesday, with more information available at TendersWA.

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

"The Australian Government is proud to support the delivery of modern, efficient ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay, providing improved transport connections for Perth's growing communities.

"Our investment will ensure these new terminals are equipped with the facilities passengers rely on for a smooth journey, accessible waiting areas and greater connectivity with key destinations like universities, hospitals and public transport."

Quotes attributable to WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"This is another exciting step forward for METRONET on Swan, the biggest ever expansion of Perth's ferry network which will transform public transport connectivity across our city.

"This project is already supporting local manufacturing with five new ferries being built in Henderson, with construction of the new terminals set to support even more quality jobs.

"It's part of the Cook Labor Government's commitment to delivering a world-class public transport system that is affordable and accessible for all Western Australians."

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Tangney Sam Lim MP:

"This is an important next step for a new ferry terminal at Applecross.

"METRONET on Swan will deliver greater transportation options in Tangney, including for students headed to UWA and for people coming to Tangney for business and tourism, while also helping to provide an alternative to driving on the Kwinana Freeway.  

"This investment builds upon the $5.4 billion Federal investment in METRONET."

Quote attributable to Senator for Western Australia Varun Ghosh:

"'The Swan River is one of Perth's most beautiful and important natural assets.

"Investing in public transport is good for our environment and our community."

Quotes attributable to Bateman MLA Kim Giddens:

"A new ferry terminal at Applecross will help connect our community to the city and key destinations like UWA and QEII.

"Improved public transport links will support the liveability of our growing suburbs and will help to bring more people to our local businesses."

Quotes attributable to Ayor Makur Chuot MLC:

"The Cook Labor Government is committed to delivering world-class public transport options that keep our communities connected and moving.

"METRONET on Swan is key to this vision and will support tourism, local businesses and encourage more investment along our beautiful Swan River."