National advisory body Infrastructure Australia has recognised three key METRONET projects as having national significance in its 2019 Infrastructure Priority List.

The list, released annually, features a pipeline of 121 infrastructure proposals across Australia which promotes long-term, integrated land use planning and ensures that major public infrastructure investments deliver the best outcomes for the community at the best value.

In November 2018, the Yanchep Rail Extension was assessed as one of eight High Priority Projects as it will provide more transport choices for residents and reduce demand on the roads, particularly in the peak periods.

One of the ten Priority Projects is the Thornlie-Cockburn Link which was assessed as having economic, social and environmental value as the project aims to promote urban renewal along the line, relieve pressure on existing stations and reduce demand on roads.

This year is the first time the Morley-Ellenbrook Line project has featured on the list, after the Stage 1 submission was made to Infrastructure Australia in September 2018. Listed as a Priority Initiative called ‘Transport Connectivity between Morley and Ellenbrook’, Infrastructure Australia recognises the low density in Perth’s north-east corridor as contributing to high car dependency. 

By better integrating transport and land use planning, there is an opportunity to encourage more sustainable development and intensify development near activity centres and railway stations through this area. While Infrastructure Australia has placed a project in this area as a longer term requirement, it acknowledges that if there is sufficient demand, introducing new modes such as bus rapid transit or rail would be beneficial for the area.

The METRONET Office is currently completing the options analysis for the Morley-Ellenbrook Line, which also considers current and future demand for rail transport in the area. This work will inform Stage 2 works, which is expected to be submitted to Infrastructure Australia in the coming months.

The Forrestfield-Airport Link previously featured on the list but has since been removed as major contracts are awarded and construction is well underway.