In a significant move to enhance his effectiveness as Premier, Roger Cook has announced his decision to relocate closer to the city center of Perth. Cook, who has been commuting from his home in Wellard to the Central Business District (CBD), emphasized that the lengthy travel time due to traffic on the Kwinana Freeway has impacted his ability to serve the community effectively.
In a message addressed to members of the Kwinana Labor branch on March 7, 2026, Cook stated that he and his wife, Carly Lane, would be moving to a residence closer to Parliament House in West Perth. He acknowledged the challenges of managing his responsibilities while enduring the congestion typical of the Kwinana Freeway, particularly during peak hours. “To do the job with the level of energy and commitment I believe it deserves, I need to spend more time in the community and less time travelling in the car,” he noted.
Traffic Concerns and Future Plans
The Kwinana Freeway has been recognized as one of the most congested roads in Western Australia, particularly in the stretch south of Russell Road, where it narrows to two lanes. Construction is set to begin later this year on a $700 million widening project aimed at alleviating some of this congestion. This upgrade will add a new lane in each direction between Russell Road and Mortimer Road and introduce new ramp signals to improve traffic flow during busy periods.
Despite the move, Cook has reassured constituents that Wellard will remain their home, as they plan to rent out their property. “I look forward to continuing to work with you to provide the people of Kwinana with the best possible representation,” he stated. Cook emphasized that his team would maintain a strong presence in the community and continue to deliver on their commitments.
Political Context and Community Engagement
In Western Australia, state members of Parliament are not required to reside within their electorates. Cook had previously leveraged his identity as a community-focused leader during the 2025 election campaign, often referring to himself as “a dad from Kwinana” to connect with voters. His move follows a controversial decision made by his predecessor, Mark McGowan, who relocated from his home in Rockingham after concerns arose regarding safety during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As Cook prepares to settle into his new surroundings, he remains committed to his role and the challenges ahead. His proactive approach to addressing travel issues underscores a broader commitment to engaged and effective governance.
