Welcome to all our new subscribers!
Westport is a large-scale, long-term project, and we know you have lots of questions. Each month we’ll update you on the latest info about Westport and address the things you ask us about.
We also have a technical newsletter called Navigate which digs into more detail about Westport. Click here to read the December edition of Navigate and visit our website to view past newsletters and updates.
To receive Navigate directly to your inbox, click here and select ‘technical and industry’ to subscribe.
FAQs
Since the Premier’s announcement about the preferred design for Westport, we’ve had lots of questions from the community. Below are some of the frequently asked questions and our responses. If you can’t find what you need, please visit our website for more information or contact us.
In early 2024 Westport will initiate the State and Federal environmental impact assessment process for the port. This will include referral to the WA Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Australian Minister for the Environment.
The environmental impact assessment process is expected to take two-to-three years from referral and will involve multiple opportunities for community consultation.
Where will the port be located?
The new port in Kwinana is proposed between the end of Barter Road and the end of Mason Road. A freight corridor along Anketell/Thomas Roads will ultimately connect the port with Tonkin Highway.
The Anketell-Thomas Road Freight Corridor is being staged in response to traffic growth projections. The initial stage, which involves the development of infrastructure between Kwinana Freeway and the port, has been identified based on extensive planning, investigations, and updated traffic modelling by Main Roads WA as part of Westport.
The Anketell-Thomas Road Freight Corridor between the port and Tonkin Highway remains the long-term plan for future freight movements.
When will the port be ready?
Westport is currently in Stage 3 “Business Case Definition”, which means planning is underway to determine when and how a new Kwinana port and logistics network should be developed.
This will include detailed costings and recommendations on the best time and process of transitioning container trade from Fremantle to Kwinana, ensuring we get the best value for the State.
The State Government will make an investment decision and determine next steps, including possible timing, after the business case is submitted in mid-2024.
First WAMSI reports published
Westport has partnered with the Western Australian Marine Science Institution (WAMSI) to deliver a $13.5 million marine science program. This investment will not only support Westport to build a more environmentally sustainable port but will also support better management of the Sound into the future.
Design decisions are being informed by this science to help avoid or minimise environmental impacts to the greatest extent possible. For example, data from studies into benthic habitats, hydrodynamics, and snapper larvae informed the configuration of the preferred design.
Final reports for the 30 marine science projects will be made publicly available on WAMSI’s website, following a peer-review process from a panel of government and science experts. The first 4 reports have recently been published and are available online.
Reminder to have your say!
Thank you to everyone who’s taken the time to let us know your thoughts since Westport’s Community Survey opened in September!
The survey will be open until 31 January 2024. To help us understand what's important to you, we'd appreciate you taking 5 minutes to complete the survey.
Calling all horse owners who use Naval Base horse beach
In 2024, Westport will be seeking to hear from people who use the Naval Base horse beach at the end of Riseley and Barter Roads in Kwinana. To receive updates about opportunities to get involved, please register for Naval Base horse beach consultation.
To raise awareness about Westport and the upcoming consultation opportunities, the team visited the horse beach in early December. It was great to meet so many people in the equestrian community, we really appreciate you taking the time to talk with us and share your knowledge about the area.
For more information about Westport, visit our website.
Thank you for your interest in Westport!
Thank you for following Westport and your involvement with the project to date.
We're looking forward to keeping you informed in 2024. There will be more opportunities for engagement as we progress the preferred design and commence our environmental impact assessment process.
In mid-2024, we will be submitting Westport’s business case to the WA Government. The business case will provide recommendations on construction timing and transition, a cost estimate, commercial framework, and ownership and funding options.
Following the business case submission, the State Government will make an investment decision and determine next steps, including timing for the transition to the new port.
Recap of Preferred Design
In case you missed it, last month Westport announced the preferred design for a new port in Kwinana supported by an upgraded road and rail freight network and logistics hub.
The design includes:
- A new port in Kwinana between the end of Barter Road and the end of Mason Road.
- A new freight corridor along Anketell Road and Thomas Road.
- Road upgrades along Anketell Road, Kwinana Freeway and Roe Highway.
- Upgrades to the existing freight rail network between Kwinana and Cockburn, connecting the port with a logistic hub in Kenwick, Kewdale, and Forrestfield.
- A new shipping channel to accommodate larger ships expected in the future.
To learn more, watch the flythrough or visit our website.
