The Public Transport Authority (PTA) plays a pivotal role in Western Australia’s transport landscape, overseeing the state’s bus, train, and ferry services network. The PTA also operates public transport services in the state’s regional centres under the Transregional brand, provides road coach and rail passenger services to regional areas under the Transwa brand, and administers and manages SchoolBus Services. In addition to operating these transport services, the PTA designs, builds, and maintains public transport infrastructure, protecting the long-term viability of Western Australia’s rail corridor and railway infrastructure.

The PTA recently delivered the Lakelands Station project under the transformative METRONET program, closing the previous 23km gap between neighbouring Mandurah and Warnbro stations in Perth’s southern suburbs. The recently opened station exemplifies the METRONET vision of creating a well-connected Perth with more transport choices.

The project’s success is underpinned by the adherence to the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) values, code of ethics, and spectrum of participation. Stakeholder engagement efforts, guided by these principles, ensured meaningful involvement at every stage of the project lifecycle. The project team prioritised transparency, inclusivity, and responsiveness, from informing the community through various communication channels to involving stakeholders in decision-making processes.

Key highlights include the establishment of a Community Reference Group (CRG) to facilitate direct dialogue between the community and the project team, engaging with the disability sector through the Access and Inclusion Reference Group (AIRG) and involving the Aboriginal community via local cultural organisation Winjan Aboriginal Corporation, in line with the METRONET Gnarla BiddiStrategy. These collaborations enabled diverse voices to shape the station’s design, amenities, and cultural elements, fostering a sense of ownership and pride within the community.

Furthermore, the integration of Indigenous public art by Sioux Tempestt and Seantelle Walsh, in consultation with the local Aboriginal community and school students, exemplifies a commitment to honouring cultural heritage and promoting inclusivity. Through these collaborative efforts, Lakelands Station not only enhances universal access to public transport but also serves as a vibrant symbol of community identity and connection.

The opening of Lakelands Station symbolises the successful convergence of public transport infrastructure, community engagement, and cultural enrichment. By embracing principles of inclusivity, transparency, and partnership, the project sets a high standard for future developments, demonstrating how effective collaboration can create spaces that truly serve and celebrate diverse community needs and values.

For information about Public Transport Authority WA, visit pta.wa.gov.au