Published on Wednesday, 12 February 2025 at 4:11:42 PM

The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale has welcomed the Nationals WA announcement of a major funding package for local roads.

In the announcement, the Nationals WA said that if elected, $276 million would be made available as part of a WA-wide Safer Local Roads program.  

The announcement singled out the Shire’s Kargotich, Hopkinson and Abernethy Roads as particularly in need of urgent upgrade, describing them as ‘buckling under the strain of increasing traffic volumes and heavy vehicles.’

Shire President Rob Coales said that safe, reliable roads were the top concerns voiced by residents, and that with a rapidly growing community the problem would only get worse.  

“With the Tonkin Highway extension set to start this year, we know that our roads are going to see more heavy traffic, deteriorate more quickly and become even more unsafe,” President Coales said.

“SJ’s local roads were made for country traffic - they simply weren’t designed for the type of growth we’re going to see.

“It’s not a problem that the Shire can fix on its own, and although we would prefer a dedicated funding commitment for the priority roads identified, the option to be able to apply for funding is extremely welcome.”

Earlier this year the Shire welcomed an announcement by the WA Labor Party that if re-elected they would commit $17 million to upgrades to key roads in the Shire.

The Shire is now calling on the WA Liberal Party to commit similar funding towards roads in Serpentine Jarrahdale.

With the Federal election due in the coming months, President Coales said the Shire was also calling on Federal Government funding towards upgrades to local roads.

“Investing in upgrades to local roads in SJ will not only improve safety, but ensure that Perth’s economy can keep moving,” President Coales said.

Back to All News