New water infrastructure, backed by Water Corporation, will fuel metropolitan housing development over the next decade. More than 15,000 sites for new homes are to be fast-tracked across METRONET sites and strategic sites in Kenwick and Maddington.
Development of more than 15,000 new homes across Perth will be unlocked through a $55 million West Australian Government investment in strategic water and wastewater infrastructure, announced ahead of the State Budget.
The program will be delivered by the Water Corporation. It will support the creation of more diverse, affordable housing in areas marked for new or higher-density development.
After completion, infrastructure will be delivered at seven METRONET precincts. This infrastructure includes locations like Bennett Springs, Morley and Malaga on the Morley-Ellenbrook Line, the future Yanchep Station in Perth’s north, and around existing stations at Redcliffe, Meltham and Kelmscott.
Development precincts in Kenwick and Maddington will also benefit from connections to reticulated wastewater infrastructure, with works at Kenwick to commence first.
Special Development Contribution Areas will be created. They will ensure State investment is recouped relatively and equitably from future developers who benefit from planned upgrades.
Comments attributed to Water Minister Simone McGurk:
“As the population of Perth and Peel grows, it’s vital that new affordable, diverse and higher density housing precincts are developed close to public transport.
“Upgrades are needed to the water and wastewater infrastructure hidden beneath our feet. This includes installing larger pipes to supply more water to more homes or building new pump stations to remove wastewater for treatment.
“Over the next decade, Water Corporation’s work will help fuel housing development. They can do so in a way that allows those benefiting from making a fair and reasonable contribution towards costs.”
Comments attributed to Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The announcement is a further example of the West Australian Government working to unlock more affordable and diverse housing as our city grows.
“We know there are significant opportunities for higher density housing around METRONET sites. These works by Water Corporation and the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage will ensure infrastructure is in place for that development.
“The announcement will also help remove some of the barriers which might hinder development, particularly in established areas.”
Comments attributed to Housing Minister John Carey:
“Our Government is using every lever we can to bolster the supply of housing across Western Australia. This includes through infill at key transport and METRONET precincts.
“We’re ensuring there are diverse housing options strategically located and convenient as WA continues its growth.”
Comments attributed to Forrestfield MLA Stephen Price:
“This is an exciting announcement by the West Australian Government. I’ve been pleased to advocate for upgrades to wastewater infrastructure, along with my community. Many residents in Kenwick have been calling for this for decades.
“Located 15km from Perth, this vital infrastructure upgrade will unlock the development potential of Kenwick. It is conveniently located within close proximity of the Kenwick train station and existing transport links.”
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