Perth’s METRONET rail network has reached a historic milestone with the official opening of the new Thornlie-Cockburn Line and the elevated inner-section of the Armadale Line, delivering world-class public transport and improved connectivity to communities in the city’s south-east.
The 17-kilometre Thornlie-Cockburn Line is Perth’s first east-west cross-line connection, linking the Mandurah and Armadale lines.
The new line features stations at Nicholson Road and Ranford Road, alongside major upgrades to Thornlie, Cockburn Central, and Perth Stadium stations.
This addition brings significant resilience to the broader rail network and, for the first time, provides a direct route from the Mandurah Line to Optus Stadium, allowing more trains to serve major events and games.
Commuters will benefit from fast travel times, with a 27-minute journey from Nicholson Road Station to Perth and a 31-minute trip from Ranford Road Station.
The two-zone fare cap remains in place, meaning passengers pay no more than $4.68 with an autoload SmartRider.
The three new stations offer 1,400 parking bays, and more than 20 new bus routes have been introduced to enhance connectivity, including 11 routes directly serving Nicholson Road and Ranford Road stations.
The project’s scale is underscored by its construction achievements: more than 84,000 sleepers and 180,000 tonnes of gravel were used, while the existing 22 kilometres freight line was relocated.
The initiative has supported over 1,600 jobs throughout construction.
Connecting to the Thornlie-Cockburn Line is the newly completed eight kilometres elevated inner-section of the Armadale Line.
Five modern stations — Carlisle, Oats Street, Queens Park, Cannington, and Beckenham — are now operational.
The area beneath the elevated rail, to be known as ‘Long Park,’ will stretch seven kilometres and feature new community facilities and amenities.
Construction on the inner Armadale Line has created more than 4,300 jobs.
The remainder of the Armadale Line, including new Armadale and Byford stations, will reopen in the coming months, with a formal date to be announced soon.
Stations at Sherwood, Challis, Kelmscott, Seaforth, Gosnells, Maddington, and Kenwick will also return to service.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook highlighted the transformative nature of METRONET, stating: “METRONET has transformed the face of Perth by making travel more affordable, taking cars off our roads and creating thousands of jobs over the past eight years.
“We know how important our expanded public transport network will be in the coming years with Western Australia’s booming economy and growing population.”
Premier Cook said the new METRONET Thornlie-Cockburn Line and upgrades to the inner Armadale Line are providing Perth’s south-eastern suburbs with more travel options, easing road congestion, and encouraging well-planned community development.
He described this as a transformative milestone for public transport in Western Australia, connecting people, creating opportunities, and delivering the future of transport today.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King emphasised the importance of collaboration: “Projects like the METRONET Thornlie-Cockburn Line and the wider METRONET program highlight the importance of the partnership between the Albanese and Cook Labor Governments to provide more transportation options in fast-growing areas of Western Australia.
“WA’s first major elevated line through Victoria Park and Canning will boost growth and accessibility in the south-eastern suburbs and provide easier access to employment opportunities.”
WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti noted the rapid progress and community benefits, stating: “Over the past three years, we have seen METRONET transform our city, and today we mark another major milestone with the Thornlie-Cockburn Line delivering our first east-west rail connection between the Mandurah and Armadale lines.
“This new line will deliver a significant boost to the resilience of our rail network, connect tens of thousands of people to a train line for the first time and provide a direct connection to Optus Stadium for people on the Mandurah Line.
Saffioti highlighted the recent opening of eight kilometres of elevated rail on the Armadale Line’s inner section, along with five new stations, all completed within 18 months, emphasising their role as key job creators and economic boosters.
She also noted that the Byford Rail Extension and parkland beneath the elevated rail will be finished later this year, marking a significant transformation of the Armadale Line and thanked the community for their patience during the project.
The opening of these new rail links represents a major leap forward for public transport in Perth, promising improved accessibility, economic growth, and vibrant, connected communities for years to come.
 acknowledges the government’s recently announced $10 billion housing fund initiative to construct 30,000 new homes in the next five years as a positive initial step in addressing the immediate housing needs of Australia. However, this vision needs to encompass not just housing, but the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure to effectively support population growth. *The Intergenerational Report 2023*, recently released by the Treasurer of Australia, echoes this necessity, outlining the critical role of infrastructure in supporting socio-economic development and enabling economic and productivity growth. It highlights the continued and increasing investment in infrastructure to help reduce congestion and ensure the smooth, efficient movement of goods and people nationally and internationally. These measures are instrumental in enhancing connectivity, providing access to employment, healthcare, education, and community activities. CJC Management believes that true, sustainable growth requires a far-reaching, holistic approach. While appreciative of the government's focus on housing, the company recognises that extensive and collaborative efforts are needed beyond this sector. CJC Management Group Managing Director Colin Calder said: “The $10 billion housing fund and the Federal Government’s commitment to transport infrastructure expenditure give us a framework upon which we can construct a strong and resilient infrastructure for Australia. As the report suggests, a strategic review of the Infrastructure Investment Program and enhanced planning and coordination with states and territories are essential to improve the quality and sustainability of long-term infrastructure spending.” The Australian engineering and construction industry is changing, especially in regards to the management of project delivery risks. Calder believes that to adapt to this changing landscape, “Organisations will need to establish robust governance, incorporate thorough risk management practices, and employ advanced digital systems for accurate reporting and forecasting. Early engagement with contractors and the adoption of adaptable, performance-incentivised delivery models will be crucial for navigating this emerging industry scenario efficiently.” The construction industry continues to face numerous challenges, including escalated material costs, labour issues, and supply chain disruptions, which are contributing to poor project performance. According to KPMG, with only half of the projects being completed on time, contractors worldwide including in Australia, are under significant pressure. Despite these obstacles, there’s a substantial opportunity for improvement in the sector. Organisations handling major projects should prioritise proper delivery and procurement models, precise cost estimates, and realistic schedules. Emphasis should also be on comprehensive risk management, cost analysis, fair risk distribution, efficient project management offices, solid governance, integrated project controls, and utilising data analytics and technology to boost project performance and productivity. A growing trend is evident as the construction industry increasingly adopts diverse technologies including mobile platforms, AI, and robotic process automation. Alongside the notable surge in modular or offsite manufacturing, these advanced technologies and methods are poised to markedly enhance the industry's efficiency and overall performance. Emphasising the importance of advanced tools, the sector is turning its attention towards project management information systems, integrated project controls, building information models, and sophisticated data analytics to amplify return on investment in construction projects. ESG considerations are emerging as a central focus not just in Australia, but globally in the infrastructure and construction sectors. Organisations are actively urging the industry to embrace more environmentally sustainable practices. Calder said: “This push is resulting in a significant shift with industry leaders establishing ambitious targets for reducing carbon footprints, waste, and pollution and heightening biodiversity awareness.” In addition, there is a marked effort to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry, all factors that are vital for future success. . “We are beginning to witness the industry not just talk about, but also act upon the belief that a diverse workforce is pivotal for enhancing project resilience. There is still a long way to go but, this industry approach effectively tackles disruption, brings fresh skills and perspectives to the forefront, and adeptly handles challenges tied to scheduling, remote working, and job site travel. To ensure continued progress, the industry needs to hold firm in its commitment to fostering inclusivity, investing in training and development, and implementing policies that support a diverse and equitable workplace,” said Calder. As Australia takes steps toward infrastructural improvement, Calder concludes that it is vital for the entire industry to look beyond traditional construction. “The inclusion of digital innovation, environmental sustainability, and workforce diversity is essential for the journey ahead. Together with other industry leaders, CJC Management is ready to share insights and collaborate extensively to ensure that our collective infrastructure robustly meets future demands and challenges particularly as our population grows,” said Calder.](https://www.buildaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/shutterstock_1108946396_edited-1000x667-1.jpg)
