WORK will soon begin on a new grade-separated interchange on Tonkin Highway to improve safety and connectivity for locals and unlock thousands of new homes in Perth’s north-east.

BMD Constructions has been awarded the contract to deliver the new interchange between Ellenbrook and Bullsbrook with work expected to begin late this year.

The project is jointly funded by the Albanese and Cook Labor governments with investment also from the private sector.

It will deliver a new single-point urban interchange between Maralla Road and Warbrook Road, a new underpass, and realignment of the pedestrian and cyclist path.

A single-point urban interchange uses a single signalised intersection to manage traffic movements between the highway and local road network, requiring less space than a traditional interchange design.

The interchange will be critical to supporting development across the fast-growing North Ellenbrook area, providing safer and more efficient access for residents and road users.

More than 12,500 new homes are planned for North Ellenbrook over the next two decades, which are expected to support a future population of around 36,000 people.

Areas to the north of this development are also proposed as future industrial land through the Bullsbrook Freight and Industrial Land Use Planning Strategy, with about 270ha expected to support more than 8000 jobs by 2040.

Growth of the Tonkin Highway Corridor has also been supported by the delivery of the Metronet Ellenbrook Line and critical road upgrades through the Tonkin Gap project.

The Tonkin Highway North Ellenbrook Interchange is expected to be completed in late 2028.

Swan Hills MLA Michelle Maynard said the interchange was an important investment in the future of the community, ensuring the infrastructure was in place to support significant growth in North Ellenbrook.

“The interchange will make it safer and easier for local families to get around, while also helping to unlock new housing and support our local economy.

“I look forward to seeing this project progress and the benefits it will deliver for our community.”

Transport and Major Infrastructure Minister Rita Saffioti said delivering the critical infrastructure was a key part of the government’s commitment to unlocking housing supply to support our growing communities.

“The new interchange will improve safety and efficiency along Tonkin Highway and better connect local families to essential services, schools, and employment opportunities.

“By investing in projects like this, we are supporting the growth of new suburbs, boosting our economy and local jobs, and ensuring our road network keeps pace with demand.”

Hasluck MP Tania Lawrence said the Australian government was committed to delivering infrastructure investments that will improve Western Australia’s transport network for many years to come.

“The Tonkin Highway is a critical transport link for Ellenbrook, and these upgrades will help improve safety, traffic flow, and reduce travel times for the community, meaning less stress and more family time,” she said.

“As works get underway, this project will support many local jobs, boost liveability, and stimulate both the state and Hasluck economy.”