Funding announced to secure road connections for defence, critical minerals in Western Australia

The project is expected to ensure the proposed Westport container terminal and redeveloped bulk terminal, as well as the wider Western Trade Coast, have the road connections required to boost long-term trade and economic growth, support housing supply and improve productivity in the defence and critical minerals industries.

“In uncertain times, Australians can be assured we are getting on with the job of delivering landmark projects that will unlock long-term social and economic benefits for Australians,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

“Upgrading Anketell Road will ensure Western Australia’s trade capacity can realise its potential.

“Providing clear and efficient access to the future Westport precinct will support long-term economic growth of Western Australian industries, boosting the local and national economy and creating jobs.”

Funding will deliver the first stage of significant upgrades to Anketell Road, including expanding the road to four lanes between Leath Road and Abercrombie Road and a grade separation at Rockingham Road. This will significantly increase the efficiency of freight movements, reduce traffic for residents and support connection for future port expansions.

Anketell Road is an important freight route that is expected to become the heavy-vehicle route of choice linking Leath Road and the Kwinana Freeway. These upgrades will shift heavy vehicle traffic away from residential areas to reduce congestion, improve safety and travel times on local roads.

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The project will also support lower emissions through more efficient freight routing and reduced network delays.

“Western Australia’s economy is the strongest in the nation, and the future container port in Kwinana coupled with the Western Trade Coast will play a significant role in maintaining that strength,” Premier Roger Cook said.

“Upgrading Anketell Road will help deliver this once-in-a-century economic infrastructure for WA.

“It will ensure our state has what it needs to meet my government’s priorities – including becoming a renewable energy superpower and a place that makes more things here.”

The Australian government has also committed $350 million towards upgrading the Kwinana Freeway, which will be essential in servicing the proposed Westport precinct.

“We’re delivering Westport to keep Western Australia’s economy the strongest in the nation, and these upgrades to Anketell Road mark the first major infrastructure project that will enable that vision,” said Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti.

“Anketell Road is a critical east-west connection, and these upgrades will ensure freight movements in and out of the future port precinct and surrounding industrial areas are safe and efficient for all road users.

“By futureproofing WA’s trade capabilities for the next century, we’re ensuring costs for imports, exports and everyday goods remain low and creating a pipeline of jobs for Western Australians.”

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.