OUTCOME OF FEASIBILITY STUDY INTO GREENBUSHES-TO-BUNBURY RAILWAY LINE
A Joint Feasibility Study (Study) into recommissioning the Greenbushes-to-Bunbury rail line has been completed by the WA Government and industry partners, led by Talison Lithium.
The study examined the technical feasibility, costs, and logistics of recommissioning 78 kilometres of disused rail for containerised transport of spodumene concentrate from the Greenbushes Lithium Operation to Bunbury Port, Kemerton, and Kwinana. It also considered options for new intermodal terminals (IMT) and assessed potential safety, environmental, and community impacts.
The study concluded that while there are no technical barriers to recommissioning the line, significant upgrades and new infrastructure would be required. After consulting with industry, community, and government stakeholders, Talison Lithium has determined that implementing a safe and efficient mixed road-and-rail transport supply chain using the Greenbushes-to-Bunbury rail line is not economically feasible at this time.
Approximately 38 kilometres of track would need complete replacement, and modern control systems would be required to safely manage 76 level crossings and 17 pedestrian crossings. Additional handling infrastructure and compliance measures added substantial cost, making the combined road-and-rail option considerably more expensive than continuing with road transport alone.
Talison Lithium CEO Rob Telford acknowledged the WA Government’s leadership in jointly funding the Study, which enabled engagement with community and industry stakeholders, alongside detailed technical and logistics assessments.
“This process has given us a comprehensive understanding of the technical feasibility, logistical constraints, associated costs, and community impacts to ensure we made an informed decision,” Mr Telford said.
Mr Telford noted community considerations were a key factor in the decision.
“We looked closely at whether rail could genuinely reduce impacts for local residents,” Mr Telford said. “Even with rail, trucks would still be needed for the ‘first and final mile’ between the Greenbushes Lithium Operation and North Greenbushes IMT, and from the Picton IMT to Bunbury Port. With 76 level crossings and 17 pedestrian crossings along the route, the overall exposure to the community would not be materially reduced.
He noted the study provided valuable insights to assist government and other potential users of the rail line in future planning.
“The Greenbushes Lithium Operation anticipates operating for many years and Talison remains committed to long-term, collaborative planning with our communities into the future. This work gives us a clearer picture of what’s possible and what’s practical as we plan for the long term.”
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