Perth shop owner seeks $250,000 after Metronet construction cuts sales

Joe Mahon, who runs Reid's Remotes at the corner of Bank and Forward Streets in East Victoria Park, attributes a steep decline in turnover during the 2024 and 2025 financial years to Metronet construction that removed the Oats Street level crossing and raised the rail line. He explained that intermittent road closures, blocked parking and constantly shifting detours discouraged customers, eliminating the passing trade that had previously driven growth of 25-30% annually.

After the works ended, Mahon submitted a $250,000 compensation claim to the Public Transport Authority, asserting the figure represents lost revenue had his business continued its prior growth trajectory. The PTA rejected the claim, stating the traffic alterations were justified, access was maintained, and reasonable mitigation steps were taken. Undeterred, Mahon says he will keep fighting for payment, warning that without compensation his business could not survive. A PTA spokesperson noted that each claim is assessed individually and some assessments are still pending.