The largest road project ever undertaken in Western Australia’s South West region has officially opened, marking a significant milestone for local residents and travellers alike.
The Wilman Wadandi Highway, a 27-kilometre four-lane expressway connecting Forrest Highway north of Bunbury to Bussell Highway in the south, will begin accommodating traffic on December 19, 2024.
This major infrastructure project is expected to divert approximately 15,000 vehicles daily from Bunbury’s local roads, significantly reducing congestion and enhancing safety for commuters.
Travellers heading to popular tourism destinations such as Busselton, Dunsborough, and Margaret River will benefit from a 20-minute reduction in travel time, bypassing 13 sets of traffic lights.
The new highway boasts impressive features, including five bridges, four grade-separated interchanges, and 19 fauna crossings, demonstrating a commitment to both efficient transportation and environmental consideration.
The project has also delivered substantial economic benefits to the region, creating 4,500 jobs during construction and injecting over $558 million into South West businesses, with $54 million specifically allocated to Aboriginal enterprises.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook emphasised the project’s significance, stating: “The Wilman Wadandi Highway will slash congestion in the South West, getting cars off local roads in Bunbury, improving road safety and shaving up to 20 minutes off travel times around the region.”
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King highlighted the project’s broader impact, stating: “This highway will transform travel for freight, tourists, and locals by reducing congestion, improving safety, and enhancing connectivity across the region.”
The $1.46 billion project was jointly funded by the Australian government, contributing $1.1 billion, and the Western Australian government, providing $356.7 million.
This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to long-term regional growth and development.
As the highway opens during the peak summer holiday season, motorists are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new route via the Main Roads website.
While minor works will continue into early 2025, including local road improvements, landscaping, and artwork installation, the highway’s opening is set to provide immediate benefits to holiday travellers and Bunbury residents.
The Wilman Wadandi Highway represents a transformative investment in the South West’s infrastructure, promising to enhance connectivity, boost economic growth, and improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors to this vibrant region of Western Australia.
