The Tonkin Highway Extension marks a pivotal moment for Perth’s south-east, as major construction breaks ground on one of Western Australia’s biggest road infrastructure investments. With a total value exceeding $1 billion, the project will deliver a 14-kilometre extension of the Tonkin Highway from Thomas Road to South Western Highway, coupled with the duplication and upgrades of 4.5 kilometres of Thomas Road.
Project Highlights and Regional Impact
Now underway, the Tonkin Highway Extension is set to transform regional connectivity and road safety for more than 60,000 daily vehicles navigating the corridor. Supported by both State and Federal Government funding, the project’s main features include:
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Construction of four-lane dual carriageway along the entire extension
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New grade-separated interchanges and safer local road connections
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Underpasses, pedestrian and cyclist shared paths, and equine crossings
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Traffic efficiency enhancements for Byford, Armadale, Kelmscott, and Gosnells, removing thousands of heavy vehicles from residential streets
Economic and Community Benefits
The Tonkin Highway Extension and Thomas Road Upgrade are projected to generate around 4,400 jobs throughout construction, supporting the region’s economic and population growth. By substantially reducing congestion, lowering travel times for both private and freight traffic, and improving road safety, the extension ensures long-term prosperity for Perth’s fastest-growing corridor.
Sustainability, Safety, and Project Timeline
Key aspects include a principal shared path for cycling and walking along the extension, plus environmental and community consultation for features like equine underpasses. The Tonkin Extension Alliance led by BMD, Georgiou Group, Civcon Civil, BG&E, and GHD heads the construction, which is expected to be complete by late 2028.
The launch of the Tonkin Highway Extension marks a new chapter for Western Australia’s infrastructure, offering safer roads, job creation, and improved connectivity for expanding suburbs. As the project progresses, it stands as Perth’s most significant road construction, providing the foundation for sustainable urban and economic development through 2028 and beyond.