Construction has officially begun on the duplication project of Mandurah Estuary Bridge, south of Perth, Western Australia (WA). 

It intends to reduce traffic congestion and help improve road user safety in Mandurah and Dawesville.  

The initiative includes the construction of a second two-lane bridge on the south side of the current one. 

It is aimed at providing additional traffic lanes for the primary access to southern Mandurah. 

To enhance community access to recreational activities, including fishing, a new 4m-wide shared path will also be developed. 

WA Senator Louise Pratt said: “Duplicating this critical bridge will provide Mandurah road users smoother, safer, faster and better access between the north and the south of the city. 

“The Australian Government will continue to invest in infrastructure like duplicating the Mandurah Estuary Bridge to support liveable, safe and healthy communities across Western Australia.” 

The existing bridge was built in the 1980s with future duplication in mind. 

It is used by more than 33,000 vehicles daily and experiences congestion, especially during peak holiday times, the government noted. 

Construction work is expected to be completed by late 2025. 

The project, worth A$136m ($89.59m), is a collaborative effort between the Australian and WA governments, with each contributing A$68m in funding.