The Albanese Government is making critical investments in Western Australian infrastructure, cementing the state's future growth.
In the 2024-25 Budget, we are committing $33.5 million towards planning works to support the development of Westport.
The Westport project is the linchpin for future trade growth in Western Australia.
It includes planning a new port and the connected road, rail and logistics operations required to move container trade from Fremantle to Kwinana.
The Commonwealth's commitment to the Westport project as part of the 2024-25 Budget will progress planning that is critical to facilitate construction of Westport, including:
- Upgrading Anketell Road West
- Kwinana Freeway widening
- Roe Highway widening
- Freight rail duplication and level crossing removal.
We have been working closely with the Cook Government to deliver a port that meets the latest global standards of technology, sustainability and efficiency while building in the capacity for change and innovation.
The Albanese Government's $33.5 million investment will match the state's contribution, taking the total investment for this planning phase to $67 million.
This project builds on what we and the Cook Government are already delivering in Western Australia including METRONET, the Tonkin Highway corridor and the Outback Way.
Where the previous Morrison Government had a deluge of press releases with a drought of delivery, the Albanese Government is ensuring that projects are properly scoped, designed and costed so they can actually be completed.
We are getting on with delivering a better future for all Australians, one made in Australia that builds economic opportunity and thriving communities.
We will have more to say about infrastructure spending in Western Australia at Budget time.
Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:
"We are committed to building a Future Made in Australia and this project is an example of how we are doing that.
"Western Australia is the economic engine room of Australia, and this Port will be a critical hub.
"We are pleased to work with the Cook Government to deliver this project."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"We are working for all Australians to deliver significant infrastructure that increases opportunities and connections, builds communities and improves safety.
"The hard work we undertook to clean up the mess in the infrastructure pipeline means there is room to deal with ongoing cost pressures and plan for future projects."
