Huge support for Perth - Mandurah Railway

26/12/02
An independent survey of metropolitan residents shows massive support for the Gallop Government's fast direct Perth-Mandurah railway.
The telephone poll of 300 people throughout the metropolitan area was conducted by Patterson Market Research in December for the Western Australian Government Railways Commission.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the survey showed 81 per cent supported the rail plan.
Ms MacTiernan said a massive 97 per cent of respondents were aware of the project and only 13 per cent opposed the railway.
"There has been a lot of public discussion about this rail project and the community seems to have given it a big tick," she said.
"The railway has strong support across all age groups and in all parts of the city and about 65 per cent of those interviewed said they would use the train at least once a year
"Almost 10 per cent said they would use it at least once a week."
The Minister said other survey results showed people saw the railway as a boost for Perth, Rockingham and Mandurah:

• 91 per cent of respondents thought the railway would have a positive impact on the City of Perth;

• 92 per cent of respondents thought the railway would have a positive impact on Rockingham; and

• 96 per cent of respondents thought the railway would have a positive impact on Mandurah.

"This is a huge endorsement for the Government's visionary decision to bring the railway up the Kwinana Freeway," Ms MacTiernan said.
She said the new railway would link Mandurah to Perth, a distance of 71km, with a 48-minute journey.
Services from Rockingham would commence in 2006 and from Mandurah in 2007.
Minister's office: 9213 6400