Project Profile: Byford Rail Extension, Perth

The Byford Rail Extension is a critical METRONET infrastructure project extending Perth’s Armadale Line by 8 kilometers to the high-growth suburb of Byford. The project’s scope included the construction of a new terminal station, significant upgrades to existing network infrastructure, and the strategic elimination of multiple level crossings to enhance safety and reduce traffic congestion. This profile provides a technical overview of the project’s specifications, objectives, and strategic impact on Western Australia’s public transport network.

Technical Specifications

The core of the project involved laying 8 km of new dual-track, standard-gauge railway south from the existing Armadale Station terminus. The extension terminates at a new, at-grade Byford Station, engineered as a modern transport hub with a bus interchange, drop-off zones, and parking for 600 vehicles. A key engineering challenge addressed was the removal of eight level crossings. This was primarily achieved through the construction of a road-over-rail bridge at Thomas Road, elevating the road corridor to create a grade-separated intersection, thereby permanently eliminating a major traffic bottleneck and safety hazard.

To integrate the extension seamlessly into the existing Transperth network, significant upgrades were performed at Armadale Station. Platforms were extended to accommodate six-car trainsets, increasing passenger capacity across the line. The associated bus interchange facilities at Armadale were also reconfigured to improve intermodal efficiency. The project was delivered using an alliance model, which facilitated collaborative problem-solving between the government and the contracted consortium (Byford Alliance) throughout the complex construction and commissioning phases.

Key Takeaways

• Enhanced Regional Connectivity: The extension provides a direct, high-frequency rail link for the rapidly growing Byford community to the Perth CBD, significantly reducing commute times and reliance on private vehicles.
• Strategic Decongestion and Safety Improvement: The elimination of eight level crossings, particularly the major arterial crossing at Thomas Road, has demonstrably improved traffic flow for road users and enhanced safety for both the rail and road networks.
• Economic Stimulus and Development Catalyst: The A$481 million investment generated over 1,000 jobs during construction and acts as a catalyst for transit-oriented development around the new Byford Station, unlocking economic potential in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the Byford Rail Extension open to the public?

The Byford Rail Extension commenced full passenger services in late 2025. This followed the completion of all major construction works and a subsequent period of comprehensive systems testing, driver training, and final safety commissioning.

Who built the Byford Rail Extension?

The project was designed and constructed by the Byford Alliance. This is a consortium of leading infrastructure firms comprising Downer EDI, CPB Contractors, Aurecon, and CareyMC, working in partnership with the Western Australian government’s METRONET agency.