Parramatta River Cats set for $50m Aussie-made replacement fleet

The Parramatta River Cat fleet is set for a huge, locally-made overhaul, with confirmation from the state government that seven new ferries will be built by a Hobart firm to replace the current, error-riddled and overseas-made boats.

The newest ships in the fleet, a fleet of 10 made in Indonesia and introduced in 2021, have been met with a number of issues - including traces of asbestos and decks so high that passengers have to stay downstairs to avoid decapitation from bridges, as well as windows that experience significant issues with glare.

Meanwhile, ferries on other Sydney routes have encountered steering failures and other issues. The consistent issues across the city have resulted in frequently-cancelled services.

The new vessels have been designed by North Sydney firm Incat Crowthers, and will be made by RIchardson Devine Marine Shipbuilders in Hobart. Though they're not being made in New South Wales, premier Chris Minns said it was a step in the right direction as they strive to boost local manufacturing.

"The NSW government is committed to building things here again to create jobs, boost manufacturing and end the failed offshore imports of the previous government," Mr Minns said.

“I’m looking forward to the day I can announce a brand new NSW-built ferry. It won’t be easy, and it will take time, but we are determined to do it.”

With construction expected to get underway as early as July this year, testing on the new boats is expected to begin early next year, with the first of the new ferries expected to be on the water by the end of 2024. The new fleet is also expected to be 'future-proof', with new technology including electric engines able to be fitted as is becomes available, without compromising capacity or efficiency.