Significant Delays Expected as School Returns and Fremantle Bridge Closes

Heavy Congestion and Significant Changes for Monday Commuters

Commuters across the Perth metropolitan area should prepare for a challenging start to the week this Monday, 2 February 2026. With the official start of the first school term and the first weekday commute following the total closure of the Fremantle Traffic Bridge, traffic volumes are expected to be significantly higher than usual. Authorities are urging motorists to plan ahead and consider alternative routes or transport methods to avoid the worst of the congestion.

Fremantle Bridge Closure and Major Detours

The most critical change for southern suburb commuters is the year-long closure of the Fremantle Traffic Bridge, which commenced yesterday. All traffic, including heavy freight vehicles that normally utilize the bridge, is now being diverted to the Stirling Highway crossing. Transport modeling suggests that travel times between North Fremantle and South Fremantle could increase from a standard five-minute drive to approximately thirty minutes during peak periods. Commuters are strongly advised to allow significant extra travel time or consider using the Fremantle Line train services, which are operating with adjusted timetables to accommodate the influx of passengers.

Back to School: Zone Limits and Police Enforcement

Today marks the beginning of Term 1 for 2026, meaning 40km/h school zones are back in effect across Western Australia. The WA Police Force has launched a high-visibility enforcement operation today, targeting speeding, distracted driving, and seatbelt compliance near schools. Expect increased police presence and potential delays around educational hubs as parents, students, and buses return to the roads. Motorists are reminded to remain vigilant for children and to strictly adhere to reduced speed limits during the morning and afternoon peak hours.

Public Transport Disruptions and Rail Updates

Rail and bus commuters should be aware of several specific disruptions taking effect this Monday:

• Midland Line: A partial shutdown continues between Bassendean and Midland stations to facilitate the final works for the new Midland Station. Replacement bus Route 907 is in operation to carry passengers through the affected area.
• Mandurah Line: Nightly closures between Perth Underground and Aubin Grove commence tonight. Commuters traveling late this evening should check for bus replacement schedules.
• Yanchep Line: Minor nightly platform changes are also scheduled to begin this evening at several stations along the line.
• Bus Services: Specific route disruptions and stop changes are in effect today for Routes 998, 371, 384, 176, and 220 due to infrastructure projects and the start of the new school term.

CBD and Local Roadworks

Several local road closures within the City of Perth and surrounding areas may impact your route today:

• East Perth: Hale Street is closed between Waterloo Crescent and Nelson Crescent starting today for school-related construction.
• Crawley: Hackett Drive remains closed to through traffic for ongoing civil works.
• City Central: Newcastle Street and Telethon Avenue continue to experience long-term closures for major infrastructure upgrades.

Commuters are encouraged to use the Transperth journey planner for real-time updates and to consider flexible working hours where possible to avoid the busiest travel windows.