Echo Marine Group has been selected as the successful tenderer for the Western Australian State Government’s procurement program to design and construct five new electric public transport ferries as part of the METRONET on Swan Ferry Expansion project.
The $66 million contract, awarded by the Cook Government, will deliver Western Australia’s first electric ferry fleet, with five modern, fully accessible vessels designed to improve connections across the Swan River. Construction is expected to commence in coming weeks, with the new ferry services anticipated to begin operating in late 2027.
“We are honoured to have been entrusted with this important project,” said Mark Stothard, Owner/Director at Echo Marine Group. “Being selected from a strong field of competitors reinforces the capability and quality of Western Australia’s shipbuilding industry, and we look forward to delivering vessels that will serve the community for decades to come.”
Echo Marine Group acknowledged the confidence placed in the company through the highly competitive tender process and the State Government’s commitment to investing in local industry. The decision to award the contract to a Western Australian shipbuilder is expected to support highly skilled local jobs, expand apprenticeship opportunities, and strengthen the long-term capability of the state’s advanced manufacturing and commercial shipbuilding sector. Around 130 Echo Marine employees, including apprentices, are expected to work on the construction of the vessels.
As a 100 per cent West Australian, family-owned and operated company, Echo Marine Group will construct the vessels at its shipbuilding, refit and maintenance facility at the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson.
Custom designed by Echo Marine Group in partnership with One2Three Naval Architects to meet the Public Transport Authority’s requirements, the new ferries will feature advanced battery-electric propulsion technology, delivering efficient, quiet and clean operations. The vessels are designed to set a new benchmark for sustainable public ferry transport in Western Australia.
Each ferry will feature passenger toilet facilities, bike storage and external seating, providing a high-quality and accessible experience for commuters and recreational users. The ferries will be designed to produce a low wake, have a carrying capacity of approximately 140 passengers and a maximum operating speed of 25 knots.
“This project represents a major step forward in modern, environmentally responsible transport on the Swan River,” Stothard said. “We are excited to work alongside the State Government, the Public Transport Authority and our industry partners to deliver a high-quality outcome that supports local jobs, apprentice training, innovation, and sustainable transport for all Western Australians.”
The Western Australian Planning Commission has recently granted development approval for two new ferry terminals at Matilda Bay and Applecross, the first infrastructure to be delivered as part of the broader expansion of Perth’s ferry network. Early tender advice has been issued for the terminal design and construction, with a formal tender expected in early 2026.
Electric ferries are already operating successfully interstate and overseas, providing cleaner, quieter and more cost-effective transport solutions. Their introduction on the Swan River represents a significant milestone for Western Australia’s public transport network and the diversification of the state’s maritime and clean-energy industries.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the Swan River had significant potential as a transport corridor for Perth.
“The Swan River is the heart of Perth, and it has so much potential to be a key transport link for Perth commuters and visitors – that’s why we’ve invested in the expansion of the Perth ferry network,” King said.
“An expanded ferry network needs more ferries, and WA has a proven record of building quality ferries.
“That’s why we’re so pleased these new electric ferries will be designed and built in Western Australia, for Western Australians.”
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the project would expand public transport options while supporting local manufacturing.
“These locally made, electric ferries will enable more people to get around our iconic Swan River, expand public transport options for Western Australians and provide a high-quality experience for passengers,” Saffioti said.
“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.
“It is part of our Government’s commitment to supporting quality jobs and business opportunities for Western Australians, so our economy remains the strongest in the nation.
“Today’s milestone marks another step forward in the biggest ever expansion of Perth’s ferry network and I look forward to seeing these new services operating from late 2027.”
Bateman MLA Kim Giddens said the expanded METRONET on Swan ferry service would improve connectivity along the river.
“The expanded METRONET on Swan ferry service will deliver better transport connections along the Swan River, making it easier for locals to move around and enjoy our beautiful foreshore,” Giddens said.
“The new Applecross ferry terminal will provide a family-friendly transport option while encouraging more people to visit and support local cafés and restaurants.”
Federal Member for Tangney Sam Lim MP said the service would provide an important alternative to road transport.
“The expanded ferry service will be a welcome alternative to driving on the Kwinana Freeway and an important part of the public transportation options in Tangney, including for students heading to UWA,” Lim said.
“For everyone catching the ferry from Applecross, it will mean one less car on our key roads for other drivers to contend with.”
Cockburn MLA David Scaife said the project would deliver strong local employment benefits.
“This project is a strong boost for local jobs, with the electric ferries being designed and built right here in Henderson by a WA-based company,” Scaife said.
“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.”
For more information visit www.echomarinegroup.com and www.wa.gov.au
