Swan River foreshore to be restored at South Perth near Coode Street with native sedges and rushes

The Federal Government has chipped in more than $2 million to help the City of South Perth restore the Swan River foreshore near Coode Street.

Native sedges and rushes will be planted to restore habitat for terrestrial and aquatic fauna, including the vulnerable fairy tern, the locally threatened native water rat rakali and the black swan.

The project, also funded by the council and the WA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, will link to wetlands in Sir James Mitchell Park and improve biodiversity.

The Federal money is coming from the Government’s Natural Heritage Trust under the Urban Rivers and Catchments Program.

Environment and Water Minister Tanya Plibersek said the funding was good news for native wildlife and the community – improving the quality of the urban spaces people share and love.

“We want to leave nature better off for our kids and grandkids and that’s why we’re restoring rivers and waterways in our suburbs,” she said.

South Perth mayor Greg Milner said the funding would have long-lasting environmental and community benefits.

“This project will enable us to protect and restore vital habitats as well as enhance the beauty and sustainability of our foreshore,” he said.

“We are proud to lead this important initiative that will protect and improve our precious waterways and the wildlife they support,” he added.

DBCA’s Parks and Wildlife Service executive director of conservation and ecosystem management Fran Stanley said the project would build on the success of the nearby Djirda Miya waterbird refuge and adjacent foreshore restoration works.

“The Sir James Mitchell Park foreshore reserve is renowned for its breathtaking views of Perth’s CBD and the Swan River, and it’s vital that we work together to protect and preserve its natural values,” she said.

“Restoration works along this section of the foreshore were identified as a priority and the State Government has invested $850,000 over three years towards the planning and delivery of critical upgrades.

“It’s fantastic to see this investment in a community asset that will deliver and sustain ecological outcomes along the river’s edge for current and future generations to enjoy.”

Swan MHR Zaneta Mascarenhas said the community was “fortunate to have stunning wetlands and rivers on our doorstep, but they’ve been overlooked for too long”.

“Generations of West Australians have treasured our iconic Swan River, and it’s our responsibility to protect it for the future,” she said.

“The Albanese Government is stepping up with a $2 million investment to restore the Swan River near Coode Street, improving ecosystems and supporting thriving local wildlife.”

South Perth MLA Geoff Baker said: “In South Perth, we love our foreshore. Local residents and committed volunteers have been asking for this and we are pleased to deliver an important upgrade that will support and protect our native wildlife in such an iconic South Perth location.”

The project is expected to be completed by December 2027.