Manufacturing in Western Australia is set to play a central role in the State’s public transport expansion, with the WA Government awarding a $66 million contract to Henderson-based shipbuilder Echo Marine Group to design and manufacture five electric ferries for the METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion project.
According to the WA Government, the contract will see WA-based manufacturing deliver the State’s first electric ferry fleet, with five fully accessible vessels intended to improve transport connections along the Swan River.
Construction is expected to begin in coming weeks, with expanded ferry services scheduled to commence in late 2027, as revealed in a government release.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the project would strengthen local manufacturing capability while expanding transport options.
“The State Government is very proud to be supporting local capability in vessel manufacturing through this project, which will see electric ferries designed and built in WA for the first time,” Saffioti said.
She added that the project formed part of the Government’s commitment to “supporting quality jobs and business opportunities for Western Australians.”
The ferries will be designed to carry around 140 passengers, feature low-wake technology, and include passenger amenities such as toilets, bike storage and external seating.
Development approval has recently been granted by the Western Australian Planning Commission for new ferry terminals at Applecross and Matilda Bay, marking the first stage of what the Government describes as the largest expansion of Perth’s ferry network.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the project reflected confidence in local manufacturing expertise.
“An expanded ferry network needs more ferries, and WA has a proven record of building quality ferries,” King said. “That’s why we’re so pleased these new electric ferries will be designed and built in Western Australia, for Western Australians.”
The WA Government said the project is expected to support around 130 jobs at Echo Marine Group, including apprentices, during construction.
Cockburn MLA David Scaife described the contract as a boost for local manufacturing, saying, “Supporting local manufacturing means more secure jobs for skilled workers and apprentices in Cockburn, while helping to grow Western Australia’s maritime and clean-energy industries.”
Early tender advice has also been issued for the design and construction of the new ferry terminals, with a formal tender expected to be released in early 2026.
