The 130-year-old train line is set to be transformed through three significant METRONET projects: Victoria Park-Canning Level Crossing Removal, Byford Rail Extension, and the connection of the new Thornlie-Cockburn Link. There will also be rail revitalisation works between Kenwick and Sherwood stations.
The transformation will deliver Perth’s first major elevated rail designed to improve road safety, create new and versatile public open space for the community and reduce traffic congestion. This will see the removal of 13 level crossings and building of seven new stations.
As part of these works, we will shut the Armadale/Thornlie Line between Armadale and Victoria Park stations from 20 November 2023 until mid-2025. Please note that the shutdown will begin with a three-day full line closure to facilitate infrastructure works at Victoria Park to enable passenger trains to turn at this station.
The shutdown will start on 20 November 2023 until mid-2025.
No, train services between Victoria Park and Perth stations will continue to operate. This includes Stadium Station on weekends, public holidays and for events.
However, there will be a three-day full line closure at the start of the shutdown for essential infrastructure works to enable the turning of passenger trains at Victoria Park.
Armadale/Thornlie Line train services will be cancelled between Armadale and Victoria Park stations.
Train services will continue to operate between Victoria Park and Perth stations (noting that there is a three-day full line closure at the start of the shutdown).
A comprehensive bus network will operate during the shutdown to the Perth CBD and local destinations, to support existing timetabled services operating in impacted suburbs.
The new and enhanced bus routes are now available, with timetables available from September, prior to the start of the closure.
Since buses operate on roads instead of dedicated tracks, they take longer and are affected by traffic. Some road modification works, such as installation of bus priority lanes on busy routes and modifications to right turns along key corridors will be implemented to improve traffic flow, which will improve the reliability of services.
The introduction of new routes and improvements to existing bus routes was carefully planned based on patronage data, passenger research and traffic modelling. It is important to note that the supporting bus network was built to complement existing bus services and provide passengers with options and choice wherever possible.
104 extra buses will be added to the Transperth network during the shutdown. Services have been designed to maximise community benefit and utilise existing capacity on the timetabled bus network.
There is no single answer to this question as everyone's journey is different. However, we know that travel times will increase and encourage all passengers to use the Transperth JourneyPlanner closer to the shutdown. Consider that there may be multiple services that suit your needs, including transferring to another train line.
Pedestrian crossings at some train stations may be closed at points during the shutdown to facilitate construction works safely. This has been considered in the planning of bus routes and there will be service coverage on both sides of the track. We ask passengers to follow traffic management and signage at crossing points during the shutdown.
No, Welshpool Station will be closed permanently at the beginning of the shutdown due to low patronage.
Passengers are encouraged to use the existing bus network in the area.
Information about services at each station, including Welshpool Station, is available above.
The stations that are being rebuilt as part of the METRONET program of works will be closed to the public from 20 November for demolition and construction works.
Facilities at stations not being rebuilt will be open including bus stands, parking, public toilets and staff facilities. Please refer to the station access maps, which will be available closer to the shutdown.
There will be no special parking at replacement bus stops.
However, Some Transperth parking will continue to be available at Armadale, Sherwood, Challis, Kelmscott, Seaforth, Gosnells, Maddington, Thornlie, Kenwick and Victoria Park stations.
For some passengers, parking at stations on alternative lines such as Aubin Grove Station (Mandurah Line) and High Wycombe Station and Redcliffe Station (Airport Line) may be an option as these stations currently have additional parking capacity.
Stations that are under construction will no longer have parking available, these include Beckenham, Cannington, Queens Park, Welshpool, Oats St and Carlisle stations.
Standard parking fees apply using SmartParker or Pay by Plate. For more information of parking at Transperth stations visit Parking.
Two temporary bus stations, located near Cannington Station and at Armadale Station, in addition to a temporary bus interchange at Victoria Park Station, will accommodate the increased number of buses in use during the shutdown.
Yes, as part of the planning process Transperth will provide services to align with the current first/last service operated by trains.
Passengers should note that as buses take longer, depending on the trip you are currently taking, your journey start or finish time will either be earlier or later than your current journey.
From 20 November, some bus stops at or near stations will move. Wayfinding signage will be installed at stations where applicable and replacement bus stops will be clearly signposted.
Station Access Maps will also be updated to guide passengers.
Limited stops services will only stop at designated bus stops. All stops services will also stop at regular bus stops along the line.
Buses do take longer than trains and are affected by traffic conditions. As a result, buses may not connect with timetabled bus or train services. Passengers are encouraged to allow additional travel time during the shutdown.
Surrounding roads on the Armadale/Thornlie Line are expected to be busier than usual. If you are thinking of driving, please allow additional travel time and be patient.
For up-to-date information on road closures and incidents, go to travelmap.mainroads.wa.gov.au.
The Armadale/Thornlie Line is Transperth’s third busiest train line and even with a comprehensive bus network in place, travel times will be longer.
The best way to prepare is to download the Transperth app and register for MyAlerts for the most up-to-date information about the shutdown.
Once the shutdown starts:
- Allow extra travel time
- If you can, travel outside of peak times
- Plan your journey on the Transperth website or app or call the InfoLine on 13 62 13
- Check where your closest bus stop is by following signage at stations or checking the Station Access Maps
- If you require special assistance, please call 1800 800 022 at least one hour before you travel.
Yes, during the shutdown additional security vehicles with Transit Officers and Bus Security Officers will be deployed along the network. CCTV cameras at train stations and bus interchanges that are not being demolished will remain active and monitored as appropriate. Fencing will be installed to separate construction zones, closed station infrastructure and track from pedestrians and vehicles.
Yes, school students have been considered as part of this shutdown, with the data analysed on how many students currently catch services along the Armadale/Thornlie Line and provision made to allow for additional capacity at peak school times.
There will be some changes to special event services at Optus Stadium including the introduction of a new bus route from Armadale Station to Optus Stadium, the withdrawal of Route 661 (CBD Shuttle) and some bus stand changes.
Trains will continue to operate between Victoria Park and Perth stations, including Stadium Station on weekends, public holidays and event days. There will be no changes to the Midland, Airport, Fremantle, Joondalup and Mandurah lines.
More information about these changes is available above.
All bus stops serviced by new routes introduced as part of this shutdown, including the three temporary bus interchanges, are accessible and comply with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport.
All Transperth buses are Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant to support accessibility.
Mobility aids such as wheelchairs or motorised scooters need to meet specifications to be used on the Transperth bus network.
In the case that a wheelchair or scooter is too big to be taken on the bus, alternative transport services are available:
If you require special assistance, please call 1800 800 022 at least one hour before you travel.
If you are unsure about where your nearest bus stop is, look out for signage at the station or check our Station Access maps which will be updated closer to the shutdown: Stations & Maps (transperth.wa.gov.au)
Yes, you will need to tag on and off with your SmartRider or pay a cash fare.
Due to restricted space, bicycles are not permitted on Transperth services. Secure bike shelters are available at many locations, for more information visit cycling to stations. All eRideables must be folded up and sized within specified dimensions. For more information visit Taking items on board.
Trains on the Armadale/Thornlie Line, including services on the new elevated rail and services to the new Byford Station are scheduled to operate once the shutdown is complete.
However, it is anticipated that some work on station precincts and community open spaces will continue after the shutdown.
For more information, visit the METRONET website.
During the shutdown, the Department of Transport is working with schools, the community and local governments to encourage people to avoid traffic congestion by walking, wheeling and riding for local trips when they can. To find out more, including maps and resources and information visit Armadale Line Active Travel.
We encourage passengers to sign up for My Alerts through My Account on the website or app. To plan your journey, visit the JourneyPlanner or call the InfoLine 13 62 13.
For project updates register on the METRONET website.