Westport's Timeline
Stage 1 and Stage 2: Westport Independent Taskforce (2017 - 2020)
The Westport Taskforce (Stage 2) was established in 2017 to identify the preferred location for Perth’s future container port. In Stage 2, Westport explored 25 options for port locations and supply chain scenarios across Fremantle, Bunbury, and Kwinana.
After extensive engagement and consideration, Kwinana was identified as the preferred location in August 2020. Learn more in the Westport: Future port recommendations Stage 2 report.
Stage 3: Westport Program (2020 to 2024)
During Stage 3, Westport developed designs for a marine and landside supply chain options.
In November 2023, Westport announced a preferred design for WA’s future container supply chain, including a new port in Kwinana supported by an upgraded road and rail freight network and logistics hub.
A business case was delivered to the Government in 2024, which outlined the recommendations for the development, timing and costs for the development of the new port. You can find a summary of the Westport Business Case here.
Stage 4: Westport Program (2024 to Delivery)
With funding to move through the next stages of detailed design for the marine infrastructure, roads and rail, Westport is now in Stage 4 – Design and Delivery.
This Stage includes obtaining the necessary environmental approvals from both the State and Federal regulator, with no construction to begin until environmental recommendations and approvals are received.
It is expected the new port and supply chain will take at least a decade to build.
The intent is to have the new container port in Kwinana ready by the late 2030s, with a transition from Fremantle likely by the early 2040s.
This will include reviewing all the businesses established around a port, that directly or indirectly support its operations, to ensure as smooth a transition as possible, while keeping trade moving in the process.
Transition
Planning for a new container terminal has been ongoing for a number of years, with modelling consistently showing Fremantle Port and its surrounding roads will reach capacity within the next two decades.
As part of the business case, Westport has recommended the Government on when and how trade will move from the Fremantle Inner Harbour to the Kwinana Outer Harbour.
These recommendations, and the analysis that informed them can be read on the Timing and Transition page.