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Posted by Allen Newton
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29 April, 2026
THE FEDERAL government has signed off on the development of Western Australia’s new Westport container terminal with a combined state and federal commitment of $1.1 billion to the project.
A joint media statement from federal and state governments said the funding would go to crucial road connections to the terminal in Kwinana.
The Australian government's investment of $552 million will be delivered through the upcoming Federal Budget and matched by the Western Australian government.
“The project will 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,” the media release said.
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.
“The project will also support lower emissions through more efficient freight routing and reduced network delays.
“Upgrades to Anketell Road will help drive economic development across WA's premier strategic industrial area, the Western Trade Coast, to support the state's economic diversification and long-term job creation.”
The announcement builds on the significant infrastructure program being delivered by the state and federal governments which includes a $350 million towards upgrading the Kwinana Freeway, which will be essential in servicing the proposed Westport precinct.
The state government has also committed a further $117.9 million in its upcoming budget which includes: $24 million towards land acquisitions to enable road construction; $31.4 million for ongoing definition activities relating to marine and port infrastructure; and $61.6 million to maintain the Westport Program's operations over the next four years.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the landmark project will unlock long term social and economic benefits for Australians.
"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."
WA Premier Roger Cook said Westport coupled with the Western Trade Coast will play a significant role in maintaining the strength on WA’s economy.
"Upgrading Anketell Road will help deliver this once-in-a-century economic infrastructure for WA,” Mr Cook said.
"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."
Federal transport minister Catherine King said the upgrade to Anketell Road is a huge investment in the future supply chains of Western Australia.
"A wider, safer Anketell Road will increase freight throughput to a future Westport precinct, reducing travel times and lowering cost of freight for businesses and consumers alike,” Ms King said.
