THE establishment of a highway connecting Perth and Darwin moved a step closer last week, with Planning Minister John Day approving for advertising an amendment to the Metropolitan Regional Scheme that outlines the proposed road reservation between Bullsbrook and Muchea.

Mr Day said the amendment was a key step in delivering the Perth to Darwin National Highway, an integral link in the state and national road network.

"Once built the highway will enhance transport efficiencies between Perth, the north-west of Western Australia and the Northern Territory," he said.

The amendment seeks to transfer portions of various lots from the rural zone and portions of Bush Forever Areas 97 and 100 to the primary regional roads reservation in the MRS for the future highway.

Mr Day said the road concept and reservation have been designed to minimise overall environmental impacts, the number of residences directly impacted and land severance, where possible.

Transport Minister Troy Buswell said the highway was a priority project and the government had provided $8 million to commence the necessary development work.

"This is an important project for Western Australia and we intend to seek support and funding from the Federal Government as part of the next round of the National Building Program in 2014-15," Mr Buswell said.

"As well as providing a more direct link between WA and the Northern Territory, the highway will also become an important arterial road in the rapidly growing north-east corridor."

Submissions are due by 12 October 2012 and more information is available from the PlanningWA website at <http://http//www.planning.wa.gov.au/>.