The Cook Government has signed a landmark $66 million contract to construct Australia's first fleet of all-electric passenger ferries, a major step in modernising public transport on Perth's iconic Swan River.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti finalised the deal with Henderson-based manufacturer Echo Marine Group on Friday, securing five new vessels that promise a cleaner, quieter future for river commuters and tourists.
Local Build Delivers Long-Term Benefits
In a significant win for Western Australian industry, all five ferries will be constructed locally at Echo Marine's facility in Henderson, in Perth's outer south. The first vessel is slated for completion by May 2027, with the remaining four expected to be finished between late 2027 and early 2028.
Minister Saffioti strongly defended the decision to choose a local manufacturer, emphasising the long-term strategic advantages over potentially cheaper international options.
"We only went out to local manufacturers," Ms Saffioti stated. "What we've experienced... is that it's very important to have local-made assets, particularly on the maintenance front. Whether it's our buses or our trains, having that local facility means our maintenance can be done locally, supporting jobs and expertise here in WA."
Design, Route and Environmental Advantages
Each of the new electric ferries will accommodate up to 140 passengers, featuring a mix of internal and external seating. They will travel at a maximum speed of 25 knots and include passenger amenities such as toilets and bike storage.
The vessels are destined to operate exclusively on the new Applecross to Matilda Bay route, connecting the two new terminals recently approved by the WA Planning Commission.
Echo Marine Group co-founder Mark Stothard highlighted the operational and environmental benefits of the electric design compared to traditional diesel ferries.
"You've got a lot less maintenance for a start and, of course, you're not burning fuel so you've got a much better carbon footprint," Mr Stothard explained. "They'll be quieter and smoother because you haven't got a reciprocating engine running underneath the floor."
Community Safety Concerns Remain
The project's advancement comes amid ongoing concerns from some local residents and water users. Safety on Swan spokesperson Megan Bagworth expressed apprehension that operational safety and co-existence issues in the popular recreational area of Matilda Bay were not being fully addressed.
"There comes a point in any project where fixing design and infrastructure begins to lock out potential mitigation strategies," Ms Bagworth said. "We are concerned this point is being reached before operational safety and co-existence issues are fully addressed."
The timeline for the ferry construction is expected to align with the completion of the new ferry terminals, although an official completion date for the terminals has not yet been announced.
