The METRONET on the Swan project aims to activate Perth's riverfront, reduce traffic congestion, and provide a sustainable transportation option for residents and visitors. This $107 million project will introduce two new ferry stops at Applecross and the University of Western Australia (UWA), enhancing connectivity across the Swan River. By leveraging the city's natural waterways, the initiative seeks to create a more connected and accessible urban environment.
The new ferry services are expected to significantly reduce commute times. A journey between Applecross and UWA will take approximately 10 minutes, saving more than half an hour compared to current public transport options. Services will operate every 20 minutes, providing a convenient alternative for commuters and students.
In addition to the new stops, the project includes the construction of five locally manufactured electric ferries, marking the first of their kind in Western Australia. This initiative is anticipated to boost local manufacturing jobs and contribute to the state's shipbuilding industry.
Construction of the new ferries is scheduled to begin in the 2025-26 financial year, with services expected to commence by the end of 2027. Future expansions of the ferry network are also under consideration, potentially adding stops at the Causeway Bridge precinct, Burswood Park, Optus Stadium, and Claisebrook Cove.