Delivering climate-resilient water to Perth’s growing communities
At a glance
The Alkimos Pipeline is a critical water infrastructure project in Western Australia, designed to secure long-term water supply for Perth and surrounding communities. By connecting the Alkimos Seawater Desalination Plant to the broader water network, the project will deliver reliable, climate-resilient drinking water. Project works have commenced and are moving toward completion in 2027.
The challenge
Perth’s growing population and changing rainfall patterns continue to place pressure on existing water sources. Water Corporation needed a solution to transfer up to 50 billion litres of desalinated water each year from the new Alkimos plant to Wanneroo Reservoir. The challenge was to design and construct a large-scale pipeline that reduces impacts on the environment and surrounding communities while also accommodating future growth.
Our response
GHD is partnering with Water Corporation and alliance contractors to deliver the Pipeline, the largest trunk main ever undertaken for Perth’s Integrated Water Supply Scheme. The 27-kilometre, 1.6-metre diameter steel pipeline has been designed in close consultation with the construction team and Water Corporation Operators to maximise constructability, operability and safety.
The project is being delivered in three key phases: route corridor selection, detailed alignment and concept design and construction which is now progressing. GHD’s multidisciplinary team continues to provide design coordination, safety management and technical leadership. We are working alongside Water Corporation and the alliance to support timely decisions and consistent delivery.
The impact
When completed in 2027, the Pipeline will expand Perth’s access to climate-resilient drinking water and strengthen the city’s ability to meet future demand. The project will play a vital role in supporting Perth’s long- term growth and provide a reliable water source for future generations.