Canberra and Perth have signed off on a $1.1 billion road network investment to connect the proposed Westport container terminal and redeveloped bulk terminal to boost long term trade and economic growth.
Australia’s federal government will supply $552 million which must be matched by the Western Australia state government.
Funding will deliver the first stage of upgrades to Anketell Road including expanding the road to four lanes between Leath Road and Abercrombie Road, with a grade separation at Rockingham Road, reads a statement from the Hon Catherine King MP, the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government. Anketell Road is a freight route that is expected to become the heavy-vehicle route of choice linking Leath Road and the Kwinana Freeway, the statement says, adding that the upgrades will increase the efficiency of the movement of freight and support future port expansions.
The Australian Government has also committed $350 million towards upgrading the Kwinana Freeway, which will be essential in servicing the proposed Westport precinct.
Commenting on the announcement, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: “Upgrading Anketell Road will ensure Western Australia’s trade capacity can realise its potential. Providing clear and efficient access to the future Westport precinct will support long term economic growth of Western Australian industries, boosting the local and national economy and creating jobs.”
