KPMG awarded rail study contract

The state government has awarded KPMG a $500,000 contract to investigate a faster rail service between Perth and Bunbury.

The project aims to deliver a faster public transport option between Perth and Bunbury with the existing Australind train trip taking 2.5 hours.

Part of a more extensive Faster Rail network, the federal government has committed $79 million to progress business cases and investigations across the nation, including $4 million towards the Perth to Bunbury link.

The state government has matched its federal counterpart, investing another $4 million towards the Bunbury-Perth business case.

Bunbury MLA Don Punch said a fast rail between Bunbury and Perth had been talked about for many years.

"I am confident the total rail package we have created, including the Australind and its renewal, along with putting aside funding for the fast rail to Bunbury, signals a very positive rail future for Bunbury," he said.

In partnership with MER Consult and Arup Group, KPMG will produce the project's strategic business case including considering the potential economic, social, environmental costs and benefits.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the business case would use population data, travel patterns, land use planning and other metrics to assess the project.

Murray-Wellington MLA Robyn Clarke said this contract award was the next big step for the high-speed transport concept.

"There are so many wonderful towns between Perth and Bunbury - Harvey, Pinjarra and Cookernup just to name a few - and a high-speed train will provide more access for locals and tourists alike," she said.

Detailed planning work will continue next year with the strategic business case expected to be completed by mid-2024.