The commencement of construction on the Kings Square renewal project has officially begun with the turning of the first sod by Finance Minister Ben Wyatt and Housing Minister Peter Tinley.
The builder, Probuild WA, has confirmed more than 1,100 full-time workers would be employed throughout the construction phase of the project.
Once complete, about 1,500 public servants will occupy 17,200 square metres of the 20,000 square metre office development component of the precinct.
Public servants from the departments of Communities and Transport are scheduled to relocate to the Kings Square office accommodation in 2020.
The relocation of the government agencies to Fremantle will deliver significant avoided office accommodation costs to government, improve community access to agency services, and deliver a valuable economic stimulus to the people of Fremantle.
Finance Minister Ben Wyatt said “The commencement of construction on this site marks the beginning of a new era for the City of Fremantle.
“With construction commencing this month, the boost to jobs and the Fremantle economy starts immediately and will continue when about 1,500 public servants move into their new offices in early 2020.
“This project is a great example of the positive impact public-private partnerships can have on our infrastructure and communities.
“Decentralisation of departments helps with congestion by reducing traffic and the need to commute into and out of the Perth central business district. Modern end-of-trip facilities within the new building will encourage commuters to also consider walking or riding their bike to work.”
Housing Minister Peter Tinley said “The Kings Square renewal project offers a fantastic opportunity for the relocation of essential Housing Authority services that now form part of the new Department of Communities.
“Sharing new, state-of-the-art facilities with other agencies will encourage greater co-operation and collaboration across portfolio areas and facilitate a more co-ordinated approach to service delivery.
“As a Fremantle boy, I am sure that the relocation of important government services to the area will also boost the local economy and add to the vibrant community that already exists in the area.”