The Western Australian (WA) Government has announced the commencement of construction on a road project, designed to facilitate access to the future Oakajee Strategic Industrial Area (SIA).  

Situated about 20km north of Geraldton, Oakajee SIA is anticipated to be an employment generator for WA’s clean energy sector. 

It is anticipated to develop a new heavy industrial zone and deep-water port for the Mid West region's strategic and downstream processing industries. 

The road contract, valued at A$20m ($13.62m), was commissioned to Highway Construction earlier this month. 

It encompasses the creation of a new intersection at North West Coastal Highway and the initial phase of the access road construction.  

Additionally, approximately 4km of the highway will be widened, incorporating new lanes to aid in acceleration and deceleration, enhancing the area's capacity to handle heavy freight traffic.  

These upgrades are scheduled for completion in the following year. 

WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said: “The new intersection and access road will be vital for our heavy freight vehicles operating in the area. The State Government remains committed to freight productivity and road safety and we're pleased to be part of a project which will bring so much to the Mid West region. 

“With an abundance of solar and wind energy in the surrounding region, Oakajee represents one of the most import strategic industrial areas, as the State seeks to harness its enormous renewable energy potential and create more long-term jobs.” 

This development follows the WA Government's extension of its Builders’ Support Facility, aimed at accelerating the finalisation of residential constructions that have been underway for prolonged periods.