The future of the Wellington car ferry and the other 11 SA River Murray ferry services has been secured, with the state government investing an extra $37.4 million over ten years.

Minister for Regional Development Clare Scriven says the 2022-23 floods highlighted the importance of these services to maintaining connections and supplies, particularly as some local roads closed due to water damage causing lengthy detours.

“The state’s ferry services are a vital link in our regional road network – and we are safeguarding their future.

“Every day, these ferries connect our communities to emergency and health services, schools, and work, and facilitate freight movements.

“As well as ensuring connectivity for River Murray communities, these contracts support significant local employment opportunities providing approximately 70 full time equivalent jobs.”

She says without this extra funding boost, the river communities were facing the prospect of downgraded ferry services, with reduced operating hours.

New, up to 10-year contracts (initial five-year term and five-year extension option) for the services begin on 1 November 2024:

• Mannum, upstream and downstream ferries (Murrundi Ferry Services)
• Waikerie (Kingfisher Ferry Services)
• Lyrup (Kingfisher Ferry Services)
• Purnong (Little Ferry Services)
• Wellington (Little Ferry Services)
• Narrung (Little Ferry Services)
• Tailem Bend (Murrundi Ferry Services)
• Walker Flat (Little Ferry Services)
• Morgan (Kingfisher Ferry Services)
• Swan Reach (Little Ferry Services)
• Cadell (Little Ferry Services)

Current ferry services will operate as normal without interruption. The state government says it is working closely with existing and new contractors to ensure a seamless transition.