Swan River Ferry Service Expansion Gains Momentum
The State Government is calling on industry to design and construct a new fleet of modern electric vessels as part of its plans to expand ferry services on the Swan River.
The Public Transport Authority (PTA) has issued a Request for Tender (RFT) to engage a local vessel manufacturer to design and construct five electric ferries which will be operated by Transperth on the expanded route. The RFT incorporates information provided by local vessel manufacturers as part of the Expression of Interest released by the PTA last year.
The new ferries will be fully accessible and incorporate passenger toilet facilities and bike storage. A new feature in the design includes external seating for passengers.
While exact locations for the new ferry stops are still being investigated, stage one will include new stops in Applecross and The University of Western Australia.
The government is currently assessing a number of other potential sites including Point Fraser, Burswood Park, Optus Stadium and Claisebrook Cove, which are being considered as part of stage two of the project.
Other stops that would be considered as part of future expansions include Belmont, Belmont Park, Rivervale and Maylands.
Transperth currently operates ferries between Elizabeth Quay and Mends Street Jetty in South Perth, every 15 mins during peak hours.
The RFT for the ferry design is available from the Tenders WA website, closing 21 May 2025( www.tenders.wa.gov.au ).
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“Our plan to expand ferry services has been backed by the people of Western Australia, and we’re wasting no time in getting on with the job.
“The Request for Tender is an important step in progressing plans for a future expanded ferry service in Perth.
“Building these new ferries in WA is key part of our Made in WA plan, and the valuable input we received from local vessel manufacturers as part of the EOI process last year and this will help inform next steps as part of the business case development.
“We look forward to supporting our local industry playing a big part in delivering the ferries to be used on Perth’s iconic Swan River, as we progress plans to expand our ferry system.”
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook Labor Government/Plans-for-expanded-ferry-service-on-Swan-River-surge-ahead-20250331