WA’s Largest Road Project to Open in Time for Christmas

31 Oct Blog

Western Australia’s largest road project, the Wilman Wadandi Highway, is scheduled to open to the public on December 16, offering a much-anticipated relief to drivers in the South West. Known formerly as the Bunbury Outer Ring Road, this 27-kilometre, four-lane stretch promises to cut daily commute times by around 20 minutes and divert approximately 15,000 vehicles from Bunbury’s local roads. WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti has celebrated the highway as a transformative development, saying it will be a “game-changer” for the region.

In addition to easing congestion, the $1.46 billion project has made a significant economic impact, with over $530 million invested in 370 local businesses and nearly 4500 jobs created. Notably, the project emphasised Aboriginal engagement, with $50 million allocated to Aboriginal suppliers and the Yaka Dandjoo program supporting employment for nearly 200 local Aboriginal workers. MLA Jodie Hanns praised these efforts, calling the project a “real difference-maker” for the community in the South West.

While minor works such as landscaping and artwork will continue after the main opening, the highway’s completion marks a new chapter for both residents and tourists, improving travel safety and accessibility across the region.