A strong WA economy but many are left behind.

6th of December 2023

The Shadow Treasurer Dr Steve Thomas says that while the Treasurer Rita Saffioti might be  correct in saying that “Western Australia's economy continues to power the nation” she seems  to have forgotten that many West Australians are doing it tough and not getting the benefit  of the current boom like the Government. 

“The Cook Labor Government may be getting a huge benefit from the biggest boom in our  history, including the biggest budget surpluses in our history, but many people and families  are not” Dr Thomas said. 

“And the Cook Labor Government is contributing to them missing out. The Treasurer Rita Saffioti today released a statement which in part said: 

“Another key factor driving WA's economy is the Cook Government's record investment in  infrastructure including METRONET, major road projects and new energy infrastructure to  help decarbonise the State's economy, with Government investment in the September 2023  quarter growing by 15.9 per cent, relative to the September 2022 quarter.” 

“Despite the boasting by the Treasurer the State Labor Government needs to acknowledge  that their own big infrastructure spend has driven up inflation over the last few years,  especially in the construction sector” Dr Thomas said. 

“People trying to get their own houses built are in direct competition with the Cook Labor  Government for workers, contractors and building materials. 

“This is contributing directly to blowouts in costs and timeframes across the private sector,  including businesses and hopeful homeowners. 

“It is having a significant impact on people’s cost-of-living at a time when many are  struggling to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table. 

“The Federal Government recently recognised this, and in fact gave it as the reason they cut  back the Commonwealth’s infrastructure spending. 

“The State Government should take note.” 

Ends.

Media contact: Dr Steve Thomas 0427 908 717