Written by
Cooper Geyer
Published
31 May 2023
Western Australia, has witnessed a remarkable transformation through its ambitious construction projects. From world-class stadiums to revitalised waterfronts, these endeavours have reshaped the state’s urban fabric and enhanced its liveability. Each project represents a testament to the vision, determination, and collaboration of architects, engineers, contractors, and the Western Australian government. In this article, we delve into Western Australia’s most significant and influential construction projects, exploring their impact, costs, and the key players involved.
Perth Stadium (Optus Stadium)
The Optus Stadium, located in Burswood, Perth, is a remarkable construction project that stands as a testament to modern sports and entertainment venues. With a seating capacity exceeding 60,000, this state-of-the-art stadium was designed to offer an exceptional experience for various events. The stadium’s unique design includes a lightweight fabric roof that covers 85% of the seats, providing shelter while maintaining an open-air ambiance. The project, completed in 2018, required an estimated investment of AUD 1.6 billion. The principal contractor for the project was Multiplex, a prominent Australian construction company. Today, Optus Stadium serves as the home ground for the West Coast Eagles and the Fremantle Dockers Australian Football League (AFL) teams, hosting major sporting events and concerts.
Elizabeth Quay
Elizabeth Quay is a significant waterfront development project situated in the heart of Perth, Western Australia. The project aimed to rejuvenate the city’s foreshore, transforming it into a vibrant mixed-use precinct. The development encompasses public spaces, promenades, landscaped areas, a pedestrian bridge, residential buildings, hotels, restaurants, and commercial spaces. Completed in 2016, Elizabeth Quay required a substantial investment, although specific cost figures are not readily available. The project involved collaboration between the Western Australian government, the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority, and various private developers. Today, Elizabeth Quay is a popular destination, offering residents and visitors a diverse range of recreational activities, entertainment options, and stunning views of the Swan River.
Perth Children’s Hospital
The Perth Children’s Hospital was a significant construction project aimed at providing specialised healthcare services for children in Western Australia. However, the project encountered numerous challenges, including construction defects and concerns over lead contamination in the drinking water. Despite these setbacks, the hospital was completed and opened its doors to the public in 2018. The construction costs of the Perth Children’s Hospital reached approximately AUD 1.2 billion. The principal contractor for the project was John Holland, a prominent Australian construction company. Today, the hospital stands as a state-of-the-art medical facility, equipped with advanced technology and dedicated pediatric services, serving the healthcare needs of children and adolescents in the region.
Gateway WA
Gateway WA is a major infrastructure project that focused on improving road and transport infrastructure in the vicinity of Perth Airport and its surrounding road networks. The project involved the construction of new interchanges, upgrades to existing roads, and the implementation of intelligent transport systems. Completed in 2016, Gateway WA required an investment of approximately AUD 1 billion. The Western Australian Government, through its infrastructure agency Main Roads Western Australia, spearheaded the project. The improvements provided enhanced access to Perth Airport, significantly reducing congestion and improving travel times for commuters and tourists alike. Gateway WA has effectively enhanced connectivity and contributed to smoother traffic flow in the region.
Forrestfield-Airport Link
The Forrestfield-Airport Link represents a critical rail infrastructure project in Western Australia. It encompasses the construction of a new underground rail line, connecting the eastern suburbs of Perth to the city center and Perth Airport. The 8.5-kilometer rail link includes three new stations: Belmont, Airport Central, and Forrestfield. The project, with an estimated cost of AUD 1.86 billion, utilises state-of-the-art tunneling technology to minimise disruption. The principal contractors for the project are Salini Impregilo (now Webuild) and NRW Contracting. The completion of the Forrestfield-Airport Link, expected in 2023, will provide a faster and more convenient public transportation option, reducing travel times and alleviating congestion on the roads.
Perth City Link
The Perth City Link project aimed to reconnect the central business district (CBD) of Perth with the Northbridge entertainment district. The project involved sinking the existing railway line and redeveloping the area above it. Completed in 2020, the Perth City Link project required a significant investment, although precise cost figures are not readily available. The project involved collaboration between the Western Australian Government, the Public Transport Authority, and private developers. The redevelopment created new public spaces, including the vibrant Yagan Square, which offers landscaped areas, outdoor dining, cultural facilities, and retail spaces. The Perth City Link project successfully improved pedestrian connectivity, enhanced public transportation access, and added vibrancy to the city center.
Fiona Stanley Hospital
The Fiona Stanley Hospital project was a significant healthcare infrastructure development in Perth, Western Australia. The state-of-the-art hospital was designed to provide high-quality medical services to the community. The construction of the Fiona Stanley Hospital faced various challenges, including design changes, construction defects, and contractual issues. The principal contractor for the project was Brookfield Multiplex (now Multiplex), a renowned construction company. The hospital’s construction cost reached approximately AUD 2 billion. Despite the disputes and setbacks, Fiona Stanley Hospital began accepting patients in 2014. It features advanced medical technology, specialized healthcare facilities, and a patient-centric approach.
Perth Airport Expansion
The Perth Airport Expansion project aimed to accommodate the growing passenger numbers and improve the facilities of Western Australia’s primary airport. The expansion involved the construction of a new runway, upgrades to existing terminals, and various infrastructure enhancements. The project faced disputes and challenges related to design changes, construction delays, and contractual issues. The airport authority, Perth Airport Pty Ltd, managed the project, collaborating with multiple construction contractors. While specific cost figures are not readily available, the Perth Airport Expansion was a multimillion-dollar project that aimed to enhance the airport’s capacity and efficiency in handling increased air traffic.
The construction projects in Western Australia have not only brought about impressive architectural achievements but have also contributed to the state’s economic growth, improved infrastructure, and enhanced quality of life for its residents. From the iconic Optus Stadium and the vibrant Elizabeth Quay to the advanced healthcare facilities of Perth Children’s Hospital and Fiona Stanley Hospital, these projects have left a lasting impact on the region. The Gateway WA project and the forthcoming completion of the Forrestfield-Airport Link further exemplify Western Australia’s commitment to efficient transportation systems. As the state continues to evolve, these remarkable construction endeavours stand as testaments to innovation, collaboration, and the pursuit of a better future for Western Australia and its communities.
