Perth businesses looking to be part of the METRONET Railcar Procurement can apply for a grant as part of the State Government’s Local Capability Fund when a successful bidder has been announced.

Small to medium sized businesses can apply for up to $20,000 to help meet essential pre-qualification requirements, purchase and upgrade of essential equipment, and consultancy engagements related to a range of expertise.

Funding applications and more information can be found on www.industrylink.wa.gov.au 

Previous funding rounds for METRONET Railcar Procurement and the Western Australian Industry Participation Strategy saw 64 West Australian businesses receive grants worth more than $950,000.

The $1.6 billion Railcar program will bring railcar manufacturing back to WA, with a new facility set to be built in Bellevue in Perth’s east. It will also see 102 new railcars (17 six-car sets) built to service METRONET projects and another 24 six-car sets to replace ageing A-series trains that are near the end of their service life. 

The Public Transport Authority is currently reviewing the final tenders from three shortlisted proponents and a contract will be awarded later this year.