Joint media statement - First test train on track at Yanchep

The Yanchep Rail Extension has hit a major milestone with the first test train running on the new tracks today.

The project will see the Joondalup Line extended 14.5 kilometres north from Butler, and three new stations built in Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep.

The extended line will connect tens of thousands of people in the city's growing northern corridor to Perth's metropolitan rail network for the first time and help develop activity centres by stimulating new employment opportunities and residential and commercial land use.

The first test train marks the start of an extensive testing and commissioning program, which will ensure all infrastructure and systems are operating effectively and trains are running safely, efficiently and smoothly.

The 14.5 km extension has seen approximately 41,085 sleepers and 90,000 tonnes of ballast installed, while three new fauna bridges are the first to be built over rail in Western Australia.

When passenger services start in 2024, it will be a 49-minute journey from Yanchep to Perth, a 46-minute journey from Eglinton to Perth and a 41-minute journey from Alkimos to Perth.

In preparation of the opening in 2024, community consultation will be undertaken in the New Year to plan for the new and amended bus routes that will support the new stations.

The Yanchep Rail Extension is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian governments.