FREIGHT infrastructure in Western Australia has been given a boost with DP World breaking ground on the $18 million Fremantle Rail Exchange project on Tuesday [2 December].
The network is expected to reduce more than 20,000 trucks by shifting more freight by rail – up from 22% to 33% of the total freight volume.
Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti attended the ceremony alongside DP World executives to launch construction.
The project will deliver a new dedicated rail gate connection linking DP World’s Fremantle container operations directly with the North Quay Rail Terminal.
Minister Saffioti said the project highlighted the strong collaboration between the state government and the private sector to deliver modern, sustainable freight infrastructure.
“By shifting more freight from road to rail out of Fremantle Port, this investment will reduce congestion, improve road safety, cut emissions, and strengthen Fremantle’s position as a vital gateway for trade and jobs in our state,” she said.
“This project will also play an important role in helping to reduce congestion on our roads during the upcoming closure of the Fremantle Traffic Bridge by reducing heavy truck movements in and around the port precinct.”
DP World executive vice president, Oceania, Nicolaj Noes, said the company was committed to building a more connected and efficient logistics network.
“This new rail gate connection will improve the reliability and efficiency of rail operations at North Quay and make it easier for our customers to move cargo sustainably and cost-effectively,” he said.
The Fremantle development is part of DP World’s nearly $1 billion commitment to upgrade Australia’s port infrastructure by 2028.
It is supported by a series of national projects to enhance rail connectivity, lift operational efficiency and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Together, the projects strengthen the integration between ports, rail, landside logistics and warehousing operations, with the aim of creating more connected, multimodal freight pathways for customers, the company says.