WA Premier Rita Saffioti’s first State Budget has provided a significant boost to the state’s infrastructure pipeline over the coming years.
By a long margin, the most significant funding package was allocated to METRONET, a project that when complete will deliver 21 kilometres of new rail with five new stations at Morley, Noranda, Malaga, Whiteman Park and Ellenbrook.
A $4.8 billion investment has been announced over the forward estimates, supported by $2.9b in funding from the Commonwealth. This includes $254 million in additional State funding for METRONET infrastructure.
A total of 18 projects under the METRONET program will aim to provide a world-class public transport system, with a total of 10 projects expected to be completed by the end of this year.
For ports, the State Government has allocated $373m to deliver upgrades and continue the operation of port facilities across the state. This includes $116m for Westport, including for early marine, civil and road works.
Key freight routes will also receive upgrades and expansion, thanks to a $240m allocation including the Brooking Channel Bridge, Bunbury Outer Ring Road, Albany Ring Road, and improvements to Great Northern Highway in the Kimberley and the Pilbara.
Other notable investments include $107m for the Brooking Channel Bridge replacement in the Kimberley, $38m to replace the Congdon Street Bridge, $29m for upgrades to airstrips in regional centres and $10m to expand school zone speed limits.
To download the full Budget Overview, click here.