Echo Marine Group Awarded Landmark Contract to Build Western Australia’s First Electric Ferry Fleet
Henderson, Western Australia. 19th December 2025
Echo Marine Group has been awarded a landmark A$66 million contract by the Government of Western Australia to design and construct five new battery-electric public transport ferries for Perth’s Swan River, marking a major milestone for sustainable transport and local shipbuilding capability.
The contract forms part of the METRONET on Swan Ferry Service Expansion project and will deliver Western Australia’s first electric ferry fleet. The new vessels will significantly expand ferry services on the Swan River, improving cross-river connections for commuters and recreational users alike.
Echo Marine Group Owner and Director Mark Stothard said the award reflects the strength of Western Australia’s shipbuilding industry and the company’s long-standing commitment to quality and innovation.
“We are honoured to have been entrusted with this important project,” Mr Stothard said. “Being selected from a strong field of competitors reinforces the capability and quality of Western Australia’s shipbuilding industry, and we look forward to delivering vessels that will serve the community for decades to come.”
Designed and Built in Western Australia
The five ferries will be custom designed by Echo Marine Group in partnership with One2Three Naval Architects to meet the operational requirements of the Public Transport Authority. Each vessel will feature advanced battery-electric propulsion technology, deliver efficient, quiet and low-emission operations and setting a new benchmark for sustainable public ferry transport in Western Australia.
Designed for accessibility and passenger comfort, the ferries will have a capacity of approximately 140 passengers and will include toilet facilities, bike storage and external seating. The vessels will be engineered for low wake performance and a maximum operating speed of 25 knots.
Construction will take place at Echo Marine Group’s shipbuilding, refit and maintenance facility at the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson, supporting around 130 local jobs, including apprentices, and further strengthening Western Australia’s advanced manufacturing and maritime capability.
Supporting Jobs, Skills and Sustainable Transport
Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the project represents a major step forward in the largest ever expansion of Perth’s ferry network.
“These locally made, electric ferries will expand public transport options for Western Australians and provide a high-quality experience for passengers,” Minister Saffioti said. “It’s part of our commitment to supporting local jobs and ensuring our economy remains the strongest in the nation.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King also welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of local manufacturing.
“An expanded ferry network needs more ferries, and WA has a proven record of building quality vessels,” Minister King said. “We’re pleased these new electric ferries will be designed and built in Western Australia, for Western Australians.”
Mr Stothard said the project aligns strongly with Echo Marine Group’s values as a 100 per cent West Australian, family-owned and operated company.
“This project represents a major step forward in modern, environmentally responsible transport on the Swan River,” he said. “We are excited to work alongside the State Government, the Public Transport Authority and our industry partners to deliver a high-quality outcome that supports local jobs, apprentice training, innovation and sustainable transport for all Western Australians.”