The Cook Labor Government has unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at transforming Perth’s Western Trade Coast into a leading hub for advanced industries. The newly released Western Trade Coast Infrastructure Strategy outlines a vision to enhance the industrial precinct, positioning Western Australia at the forefront of global defence and clean energy sectors while generating local jobs and diversifying the state’s economy.
Spanning 3,900 hectares across Kwinana, Rockingham, and Cockburn, the Western Trade Coast is Perth’s sole heavy industrial area, providing nearly 43,000 jobs—almost 3 per cent of the state’s total workforce. The new strategy, crafted with input from industry stakeholders, local governments, unions, and Traditional Owners, seeks to address key challenges and seize growth opportunities in the area.
Premier Roger Cook highlighted the importance of the Western Trade Coast to both the local community and the broader state economy. “As a resident of Kwinana, I understand the critical role our industrial area plays in job creation and economic growth,” Cook said. “This strategy is about preparing our state for the future, securing quality local jobs, and ensuring long-term economic stability.”
Central to the strategy is a $20 million investment in the Kwinana Bulk Jetty, a crucial infrastructure point for the area’s processors, manufacturers, and logistics providers. The funding will facilitate the acquisition of 4.9 hectares of land adjacent to the jetty, which will be used to expand storage and logistics facilities. This expansion aims to support existing industries and enhance capacity for new products and trades.
In addition to the jetty expansion, the government plans to invest $2 million to help Fremantle Ports Authority redesign its landside logistics. This investment will improve road connections, build new sheds, and upgrade rail sidings to support the growing needs of the Western Trade Coast.
The new strategy builds on previous investments, including the $500 million Strategic Industries Fund announced in the 2024-25 State Budget. This fund includes a $125 million allocation for developing new industrial land at Latitude 32 within the Western Trade Coast.
Ports Minister David Michael acknowledged the importance of these investments in the state’s maritime infrastructure. “The $20 million commitment to Kwinana Bulk Jetty will enable us to redevelop essential landside infrastructure and support the emerging industries that will drive our future economy,” Michael said. “With Westport on the horizon, we’re laying the groundwork for the redevelopment of maritime infrastructure, crucial for unlocking the full economic potential of the Western Trade Coast.”
Lands Minister John Carey also underscored the significance of the Western Trade Coast’s transformation. “This area has earned a reputation as a premier heavy industrial precinct globally,” Carey noted. “Transferring land from DevelopmentWA to Fremantle Ports will enhance the efficiency of Kwinana Bulk Jetty’s landside operations, benefiting the port, its users, and the state as a whole.”
The strategy is designed to address several challenges faced by the Western Trade Coast, including traffic congestion at key intersections, ageing infrastructure, and constraints on supply chain connectivity. It encompasses 12 targeted strategies across various sectors, including transportation, utilities, maritime, land use, and policy frameworks.
The Cook Labor Government’s vision is to establish the Western Trade Coast as a Global Advanced Industries Hub. This initiative aims to foster growth in sectors such as defence and clean energy, positioning Western Australia as a leader in these fields. By addressing current limitations and investing in critical infrastructure, the strategy seeks to create a robust and future-ready industrial precinct.
As the strategy unfolds, the Western Trade Coast is set to play a pivotal role in supporting WA’s economic diversification and job creation. With significant investments planned and a clear vision for growth, the area is poised to become a major player in the global advanced industries landscape.
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