We've partnered with UWA to bring Perth's first locally developed driverless bus to Amberton Beach, and he's just hit the road!

The three-year public road trial of a driverless bus that will take passengers between Marmion Avenue and Amberton Beach has commenced its initial on-road testing period.

Stockland General Manager - WA Communities, Col Dutton, said the bus will be fantastic for the residents, as well as showcase UWA's innovative work in autonomous driving research.

"We're excited to partner with UWA in introducing our Amberton Beach community to the future of transport in Australia," he said.

The autonomous shuttle bus project began in 2020, jointly funded by Stockland and the University of Western Australia. It's the first locally developed driverless bus in Perth, and the first time the bus has explored the open road after two years roaming the UWA campus.

"For the first couple of months during the trial, engineering students will 'train' the path and fine-tune operations before the shuttle will run as a regular service and take passengers," said Professor Bräunl, from UWA's School of Engineering.

"It's a very exciting time for all involved with autonomous driving as the biggest engineering challenge of our time."

City of Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken also welcomed nUWAy. "As technology and innovation advances, it's important that our community can experience the benefits, especially when the technology exists on our roads," she said. "We're beginning our own Jetsons here and this is the groundbreaking start of it."

"It's admirable to see Stockland supporting this innovative venture in a way that educates our community and keeps them safe."

The public will be able to book a ride on the bus from mid 2023, after initial testing is complete. Up to eight passengers at a time will be able to take the six-minute journey from the Amberton Beach Sales and Information Centre to Amberton Beach.

Watch 7NEWS Perth's segment on the project below.