Mandurah and the Peel region are set to benefit from the state government’s 2016 budget despite criticism the deficit is the biggest in Western Australian history.
Treasurer Mike Nahan revealed on Thursday the budget would be $3.9 billion in the red, with debt expected to hit $40 billion.
But Mr Nahan said the state budget would continue to build a stronger economy to create investment, jobs and opportunities for people living and working in regional WA.
Specific Peel projects funded include:
- $49.3 million to Transform Peel, with a new agricultural and industrial precinct, including:
- Nambeelup Business Park, incorporating more than 1,000 hectares of land
- Planning for Peel Integrated Water Initiative
- Planning for new Peel Food Zone
- Nambeelup Business Park, incorporating more than 1,000 hectares of land
- Planning for Peel Integrated Water Initiative
- Planning for new Peel Food Zone
- a share in $20 million under the Regional Estuaries Initiative to restore the health and function of the Peel-Harvey Inlet.
These projects were announced during the Peel Regional Cabinet in April.
The government also maintained statewide investment totalling $3.78 billion across the forward estimates would benefit the Peel region in the following categories:
- Health – including Southern Inland Health Initiative;
- Seizing the Opportunity Agriculture – including Water for Food, Asian Market Success and WA Open for Business;
- Culture and the arts – including Regional Film Fund and Creative Regions Program Aboriginal development initiatives;
- Tourism - including the Western Australian Caravan and Camping Action Plan, Regional Events Program and Aboriginal Tourism Development Program;
- Community support services – including the Regional Grants Scheme, Community Chest Grant Scheme and Telecommunications; and
- Education – including Better Beginnings.
Regional development minister Terry Redman said Royalties for Regions would build infrastructure to grow the Peel and develop economic opportunities with projects such as the new Mandurah traffic bridge.
“The Government has made responsible decisions to ensure Peel communities continue to thrive, develop and contribute to the State’s economy,” Mr Redman said.
“We must look to secure our State’s future and provide opportunities for industry growth that supports local jobs and creates long-term benefits for regional communities.
“Not only does Royalties for Regions provide better infrastructure and services for regional communities, it also builds regional economies, which is good for the entire State.”
Nathan Hondros
Senior Journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, and Fairfax Media.
Senior Journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, and Fairfax Media.
