Save Matilda Bay

Welcome to Save Matilda Bay

This site is a trusted community resource for anyone wanting to understand the proposed ferry terminal at Matilda Bay. Here you’ll find the clear facts, how they’ve changed over time, and what they mean for our environment, families, and river users. Our goal is simple: provide unbiased information so every West Australian can make up their own mind.

Explore the Facts

Core Facts

What is Proposed?

The WA Government plans a new ferry terminal at Matilda Bay as part of the METRONET on Swan ferry expansion. A fleet of five electric ferries will link Elizabeth Quay ↔ Matilda Bay ↔ Applecross to improve sustainable river transport.
Source: PTA WA Project Overview

Where Will It Go?

The confirmed site is Central Matilda Bay, Hackett Drive near UWA. Originally five sites were considered, but this was chosen based on connectivity, safety, heritage, and environmental criteria. Ferry approach and departure will be limited to 8 knots within Matilda Bay.
Source: WA Govt Media Statement (July 2025)

Why is it Controversial?

  • 🚣 Safety: Conflict with sailing, rowing, paddling, and swimming.
  • 🦢 Environment: Threats to seagrass, bird habitats, and dolphins.
  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Community Impact: Groups like Sailability WA warn they may have to close.
Sources: ABC News, The West Australian

Current Status

✔ Location confirmed (July 2025)
📑 Investigations ongoing
🕑 Services expected by late 2027
Source: PTA WA

Timeline

Fact History

Current: The Matilda Bay ferry terminal is confirmed for Central Matilda Bay (Hackett Drive near UWA).

History: In early 2025, five sites were considered across the Swan River. Community groups proposed shifting the terminal south near Pelican Point due to safety and environmental concerns.

Why the Change: A government multi-criteria analysis assessed sites based on marine safety, land and water use, environment, heritage, and connectivity. The State announced the central Matilda Bay site in July 2025.

Sources: WA Govt Media Statement, PTA Project Page

Current: Ferries will operate at 8 knots within Matilda Bay on approach and departure from the terminal.

History: Earlier announcements did not specify speeds, leading to safety concerns from sailing and rowing clubs.

Why the Change: To reduce risk to recreational water users, the Public Transport Authority set a formal 8-knot limit in published materials.

Source: PTA Project Overview

Current: The Swan River ferry expansion is budgeted at $107 million, covering five new electric ferries and new terminals (including Matilda Bay).

History: Earlier announcements in late 2024 referenced a smaller indicative figure before the full budget was revealed in January 2025.

Why the Change: The government confirmed the full program cost as part of pre-election commitments and forward estimates.

Source: ABC News (Jan 2025)

Current: The WA Government says stakeholder consultation included rowing clubs, sailing clubs, UWA, and environmental groups.

History: Community members reported limited opportunities for direct input before the site was confirmed in July 2025, leading to frustration and campaigns such as Save Matilda Bay.

Why the Change: Government statements highlighted a Stakeholder Reference Group process, though critics say it did not address major safety and community concerns.

Sources: WA Gov Media Statement, ABC News (Jun 2025)

Current: Services are expected to begin by late 2027, once construction and ferry commissioning are complete.

History: Initial media reports in early 2025 suggested operations could start as early as 2026, before revised project schedules were published.

Why the Change: Timelines shifted as procurement and environmental assessments took longer than anticipated.

Source: PTA Project Overview

Documents & Sources

Below are key documents and references related to the proposed Matilda Bay ferry terminal. This library will grow as more reports, media releases, and community submissions become available.