Protesters Rally Against Matilda Bay Ferry Terminal Plans
Crowds demand the State Government relocate the proposed ferry terminal from Matilda Bay.
1Massive Protest at Parliament
On November 12, 2026, a crowd three times larger than expected gathered at Parliament House to oppose the State Government’s ferry terminal project. Protesters chanted against the plan, specifically targeting the location at Matilda Bay. Despite the significant turnout, neither Premier Roger Cook nor Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti addressed the demonstrators.
2Proposed Infrastructure Specifications
The government plans a four-berth terminal extending 150 metres into the bay, featuring a charging hub for vessels. The project involves a 24-metre long, 64-tonne ferry. Officials are also seeking speed exemptions that would allow vessels to travel at three times the current water speed limit, raising serious safety and environmental concerns.
3Community Opposition Rationale
Campaigners argue the terminal should be relocated to an existing jetty at JoJo’s in Nedlands. They emphasize that Matilda Bay is a Class A reserve, the highest level of protection for public land. The group maintains they support the ferry service itself but strongly object to the specific site chosen for construction.
4Diverse Coalition of Opponents
The rally united conservationists, water sports organizations, UWA graduates, and local MPs. Over 4,000 members from ten different water sports groups utilize the bay, fearing the terminal will disrupt marine life and public access. Sailability WA specifically warned that their disability sailing program would be forced to close if construction proceeds.
5Legislative and Academic Pushback
Nedlands MLA Jonathan Huston has introduced two motions regarding the proposal, challenging the government's dismissive 'NIMBY' label. Additionally, the UWA Convocation, representing university graduates, formally agreed that the plan requires an immediate pause. They argue that the current site selection lacks sufficient independent assessment and threatens the area's long-term ecological health.
6Demands for Transparency
Spokesperson Megan Bagworth is demanding the release of the government’s full business case, risk assessment, and multi-criteria analysis. Currently, only brief summaries are available, which independent experts have already challenged. The campaign insists that the decision-making process must be removed from the Public Transport Authority and subjected to a truly independent review.
7Environmental and Safety Risks
Critics highlight that the Swan River is a shared space for rowers, sailors, and swimmers, not just a transit corridor. They argue that the proposed speed exemptions and the terminal's physical footprint pose irreversible risks to the river's ecosystem. The campaign warns that poor location choices will impact the environment for future generations.
8Future Outlook and Strategy
The protest signals a sustained effort to force a government rethink before construction begins. By demonstrating that opposition extends beyond local residents, the campaign aims to maintain political pressure. The group continues to call for the preservation of Matilda Bay, citing its century-long history as a protected site for public recreation.
Original article: PerthNow — Protesters Rally Against Matilda Bay Ferry Terminal Plans