The City of Perth has voted to request an extension of the free CAT bus service to Point Fraser, aiming to assist struggling businesses in East Perth. The council approved the move at its April 29 meeting, seeking to expand the existing Perth CBD CAT route to include the riverfront destination.
Previous Requests Rejected
The city had previously made similar requests in July 2023 and January 2024, but the Public Transport Authority declined both times, citing that bus route 24 already services Point Fraser with frequencies ranging from every 10 to 30 minutes. The authority stated that a significant increase in riverfront development and activity would be necessary to justify additional public transport.
Community Proposal
A proposal from East Perth resident Vicki Raniszewski highlighted the existing movement between East Perth, Victoria Park, and the Perth CBD. The proposal suggested that the Blue CAT service could be diverted from Barrack Street Jetty to travel along Riverside Drive eastbound, stopping at Fraser Point near the Boorloo Bridge landing, before returning to its original route via Adelaide Terrace and St Georges Terrace. It noted that many residents, tourists, and visitors are unaware of Transperth route 24, which operates in the area.
Councillor Catherine Lezer emphasized that the Boorloo Bridge now connects Victoria Park, Heirisson Island, and the Perth CBD, making the extension vital. She pointed out that over 10,000 East Perth residents and visitors staying in approximately 2,100 hotel rooms along Adelaide and St Georges Terrace would gain better access to the Swan River foreshore and the broader CAT network with this change. She also noted that the Point Fraser carpark has 269 parking bays subject to the Department of Transport's Perth parking levy, which was initially intended to support the CAT service. Yet, no CAT service operates near Point Fraser, meaning users contribute to the levy without direct benefit.
Focus on Point Fraser
Deputy Lord Mayor David Goncalves initially sought to also improve public transport links between Claisebrook and the river but withdrew the proposal after city staff warned it could undermine the Point Fraser extension's chances. General manager of planning and sustainability Maria Cooke explained that the city needed to present its strongest case for the Point Fraser route, which differs from the Claisebrook connection in terms of justification and data requirements.
CEO Michelle Reynolds noted that staff had insufficient time to consider Goncalves' amendment and stressed the need for clear advocacy. She stated that the initial submission focuses on Point Fraser to support the Boorloo Bridge as a tourism destination, while north-to-south bus links represent a larger issue with greater network impact.
Councillor Chris Patton agreed that the focus must remain on Point Fraser, as businesses there are struggling. He warned that asking for too much could dilute the message, emphasizing the need for a sole focus on the bus extension to Point Fraser.
Voting and Declarations
Nearly half of the council declared an interest in the proposed extension and abstained from voting. Councillors Viktor Ko, Liam Gobbert, Raj Doshi, and Adam Pacan stated they had properties that would be affected by the route expansion, leaving the council with just one member above the quorum requirement.
