WA-based shipbuilder Echo Marine Group to design
and construct five new electric ferries for the METRONET on Swan Ferry Service
Expansion project
$66 million contract will introduce electric
ferries to WA for the first timeDevelopment approval recently secured for new
ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay in the largest ever expansion of
Perth’s ferry networkExpanded ferry services to commence in late 2027
Cook Government delivering quality
infrastructure and services across WA

The Cook Government
has awarded a $66 million contract to Henderson-based shipbuilding company,
Echo Marine Group, to design and construct five new electric ferries as part of
the METRONET on Swan Ferry Expansion project.

The contract will deliver Western Australia’s
first electric ferry fleet, with five modern, fully accessible vessels designed
to improve connections across the Swan River.

The Western Australian Planning Commission
recently granted development approval for two new ferry terminals at Matilda
Bay and Applecross, the first to be delivered as part of a landmark expansion
of Perth’s ferry network.

Each ferry will feature passenger toilet
facilities, bike storage and external seating for passengers, providing a
high-quality, accessible experience for commuters and recreational users.

The new ferries will be designed to produce a
low wake, have a carrying capacity of approximately 140 passengers and a
maximum operating speed of 25 knots.

The contract award follows a Request for
Tender issued earlier this year inviting vessel manufacturers to submit for a
tender as part of plans for a future expanded ferry service on the Swan River.

Construction is expected to commence in
coming weeks with the new ferry services expected to start in late 2027.

The project is part of the Cook Government’s
commitment to supporting quality local jobs, with around 130 Echo Marine
employees, including apprentices, expected to work on the construction of the
vessels.

Electric ferries have been successfully
deployed
interstate and overseas, providing a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective
transport solution, and their introduction represents a significant milestone for WA’s
public transport network.

This project is part of the Cook Government’s
commitment to delivering a world-class public transport system for Western
Australians, as well as diversifying the economy and supporting local jobs.

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.

Comments
attributed to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional
Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“The Swan River is the heart of Perth, and it
has so much potential to be a key transport link for Perth commuters and
visitors – that’s why we’ve invested in the expansion of the Perth ferry
network.

“An expanded ferry network needs more
ferries, and WA has a proven record of building quality ferries.

“That’s why we’re so pleased these new
electric ferries will be designed and built in Western Australia, for Western
Australians.”

Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

“These locally made, electric ferries will enable more
people to get around our iconic Swan River, expand public transport options for
Western Australians and provide a high-quality experience for passengers.

“The State Government is very proud to be supporting local
capability in vessel manufacturing through this project, which will see
electric ferries designed and built in WA for the first time.

“It is part of our Government’s commitment to supporting
quality jobs and business opportunities for Western Australians, so our economy
remains the strongest in the nation.

 

“Today’s milestone marks another step forward in the biggest ever
expansion of Perth’s ferry network and I look forward to seeing these new
services operating from late 2027.”

Comments attributed to Bateman MLA Kim Giddens:

“The expanded METRONET on Swan ferry service will deliver better
transport connections along the Swan River, making it easier for locals to move
around and enjoy our beautiful foreshore.

“The new Applecross ferry terminal will provide a family-friendly
transport option while encouraging more people to visit and support local cafés
and restaurants.”

Comments attributed to
Federal Member for Tangney Sam Lim MP: 

“The expanded ferry service will be a welcome alternative to driving on
the Kwinana Freeway and an important part of the public transportation
options in Tangney, including for students heading to UWA.  

“For everyone catching the ferry from Applecross, it will mean one less
car on our key roads for other drivers to contend with.”

Comments attributed to Cockburn MLA David Scaife:

“This project is a strong boost for local jobs, with the electric ferries
being designed and built right here in Henderson by a WA-based company.

“Supporting local manufacturing means more secure jobs for skilled
workers and apprentices in Cockburn, while helping to grow Western Australia’s
maritime and clean-energy industries.”