THE WESTERN Australian government has called on state industry to design a new fleet of modern vessels as part of its plans to expand Perth’s ferry services on the Swan River.

An expression of interest process has begun, with the state government inviting Western Australian industry to put forward designs, as the Government prepares a business case for the expanded services.

A number of parameters for submitted designs have been outlined by the government, including that vessels are up to 25 metres in length, and with a minimum of 120 seats, including 40 to 50 external seats.

Passenger toilet facilities, bike storage, and options for electric powered vessels are also listed as parameters. 

The government also announced that its plan to expand ferry services would be rolled out in a number of phases, to ensure services remained sustainable as new ferries were progressively manufactured.

While exact locations for new ferry stops is still to be determined, the Government is investigating options for new stops in Applecross, The University of Western Australia, the Causeway Bridge precinct, Burswood Park, Optus Stadium and Claisebrook Cove.

The move comes as a $2 million feasibility study to expand ferry services was announced in the WA budget, with the government announcing plans to expand services on Swan River earlier this year.

WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said that as Perth grows and demand for public transport increases, the government needs to be looking at all transport options to get people to where they need to be.

“The reality is we’re seeing a significant growth in high density developments in key areas along the Swan River, with major developments planned in the future,” Saffioti said.

“This significant growth in population along the Swan River is changing the viability equation of an expanded ferry service, and our government believes it’s time for our city to take this next step.

“As part of the business case development, we’re keen to see what innovative and modern ferry designs are available, and importantly, what capacity there is to manufacture the ferries right here in Western Australia.

Minister Saffioti said “enormous” growth was occurring in the number of people using the existing ferry services.

“Last financial year saw record patronage on the ferries, and I have no doubt there will be huge support for an expanded service.”