Perth’s first east-west rail link, the Thornlie-Cockburn line, has officially opened. This marks a major step forward in Western Australia’s largest transport infrastructure project—Metronet. The $1.35 billion extension connects Thornlie to Cockburn Central. It includes two brand-new stations. This milestone comes as part of a broader investment to elevate railway lines and ease road congestion across the city.
Premier Roger Cook and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti inaugurated the line. They call it “transformational” for commuters. The state and federal governments jointly fund the Metronet project. The project is expected to enhance accessibility, alleviate traffic congestion, and support Perth’s growing population.
Elevated Stations Aim to Ease Congestion and Open Public Space
Alongside the Thornlie-Cockburn line, the project features a $1.6 billion elevation of five train stations from Carlisle to Beckenham. This development removes six busy level crossings, which previously caused road closures of up to six hours a day. The elevated rail is expected to ease traffic flow and free up land beneath for public use.
Although the project faced a $2 billion cost overrun and delays of up to four years, Minister Saffioti said the investment was worthwhile. “Generational infrastructure is hard. These projects are about making transport more affordable and accessible for the future,” she stated.
However, not all have benefited immediately. The Armadale line has been shut since November 2023, leaving businesses like butcher Matt Budny in Carlisle struggling due to road closures. “We lost over half our business,” he said, adding that despite the setback, he recognises the long-term value of the project.
A Connected Future for Perth
Premier Roger Cook praised the project’s broader impact: “We’ve never been prouder of our public transport system. This is about connecting people—to jobs, schools, families, and communities.”
The opening of the Thornlie-Cockburn link comes after 18 months of construction disruption. While sections of the Metronet project, including the Armadale and Byford stations, are still under development, officials say the work is building a more connected and accessible Perth.