A new ferry terminal will be built at central Matilda Bay, bringing direct Swan River access to The University of Western Australia and its foreshore. The State Government confirmed the location today, as part of its METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion, with plans to better connect UWA, Matilda Bay, Applecross, and Elizabeth Quay by water.
Why central Matilda Bay?
After months of site investigations and community consultation, central Matilda Bay has been selected as the preferred site from five options. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the location offered the best result for safety, access, and day-to-day use. “Expanding ferry services on the Swan River has long been talked about and today’s announcement means we’ve now confirmed the final locations for the first two stops as part of a broader service,” she said.
The choice of location was heavily influenced by feedback from river users and the wider community. Early plans put the terminal further north, but concerns from groups such as local rowing and sailing clubs saw the government return to the drawing board.
“The Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) maritime team, in collaboration with the Public Transport Authority, thoroughly assessed a range of locations for a new ferry terminal servicing UWA, and the central location in Matilda Bay provided the best outcomes,” Minister Saffioti said.
Upgrades planned for Hackett Drive and the bay
Five new electric ferries will eventually connect Elizabeth Quay, Matilda Bay, and Applecross, making river travel a new option for UWA students, staff, and visitors.
“This is an exciting milestone, and I am confident we will be able to work cooperatively with key user groups to safely share the waterway just as we do in South Perth and in other parts of the country and the world,” Minister Saffioti said.
As well as the new ferry terminal, the project will deliver upgrades to landscaping, public toilets, a new roundabout, pedestrian crossing, and additional bus bays along Hackett Drive. The government will seek public feedback on the development application, giving Perth residents another chance to have their say.
