WA Cabinet-endorsed project definition plans for the 17.5km Thornlie-Cockburn Link and the 14.5km Yanchep Rail Extension have now been submitted to Infrastructure Australia, which will enable the projects to move into the procurement phase.
The industry briefing presentations included important information about the scope of works, contract packages, expectations and requirements, WA Industry Link and future METRONET work.
WA Premier Mark McGowan spoke about opportunities the latest METRONET milestone represented for WA businesses at the industry briefing, which was attended by more than 300 representatives, and included an exhibition by larger companies wishing to engage with local supply chain businesses.
“My Government is committed to creating a pipeline of work for Western Australians, while delivering infrastructure that better connects people and the communities they live in,” Mr McGowan said.
“Our number one priority is WA jobs and the delivery of these METRONET projects is a good example of the State Government’s plans to boost our local economy and engage with Western Australian businesses.
“We said we would deliver METRONET and deliver on our Plan for Jobs. We’re pressing ahead and implementing our job-creating commitments. Initiatives like the WA Industry Link are already underway and will make a huge difference to enable Western Australians to secure work on State Government projects.”
A capability register, where local supply chains companies and contractors log their services, will also be provided to the shortlisted companies as they move into the competitive pricing phase of the procurement process in August this year.
More than 3,000 jobs are expected to be created over both projects, with the major construction works to be delivered together by one contractor through a Competitive Alliance contract to maximise efficiencies and generate savings.
“These projects are part of the Turnbull Government’s ongoing commitment to improve liveability and tackle congestion as well as create jobs and support economic growth through our $11 billion investment in roads and rail across Western Australia,” Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure and Cities Paul Fletcher said.
“The Thornlie-Cockburn Link will be Perth’s first east-west connection, making travel around the city by train more flexible and improving public transport links to Perth’s southern suburbs.
“The Yanchep Rail Extension is a 14.5-kilometre project that will deliver the final section of the Joondalup rail line from Butler to Yanchep, helping to support the area’s ongoing growth, as well as reducing road congestion.”
The projects, with a current combined budget of $1.056 billion, are being delivered through a joint funding arrangement with the Commonwealth funding $700 million and the State Government contributing $356 million.
The METRONET team is also consulting with the local community about projects in their area.
