Rail Cuts Trucks

Rail Use Surges at Fremantle, Cutting Truck Traffic and Boosting Efficiency

Fremantle Ports has recorded a nation‑leading shift to rail, with 26.4% of all container freight in 2025–26 moving in and out of the Inner Harbour by train — the highest share of any major Australian port. More than 240,000 containers travelled by rail, supported by the State Government’s long‑running Fremantle Container Rail Subsidy.

Credit Deanna Shanahan

The surge in rail use removed an estimated 164,000 truck trips from Perth roads over the year, easing congestion, improving safety, and reducing emissions. It coincided with Fremantle Ports’ strongest container throughput on record: 920,521 TEU, a 3.7% increase on last year.

Credit Fremantle Shipping News

The rail subsidy — currently $50 per container — encourages operators to choose rail over road, with around 80% of rail‑moved containers fully loaded and subsidised. The Cook Government says the results show its investment is working, with rail now carrying almost double the share it did a decade ago.

Ministers Rita Saffioti and Stephen Dawson said the record figures demonstrate the importance of rail in keeping WA’s supply chains resilient and efficient. Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk noted the dramatic rise from 14.5% rail share in 2015–16, calling it clear evidence that the incentive is delivering real benefits for local roads and communities.

The Government’s Westport program is expected to push rail’s share even higher in coming years, strengthening freight links across the State and supporting long‑term economic growth.

*By Michael Barker, Editor, Fremantle Shipping News

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