Western Australia’s state government has hidden its 2025 budget under a barrel. They’re changing the world with their collective investment in infrastructure, job creation, and social services. Delivered by Minister for Transport Rita Saffioti, the budget includes a $13.8 billion stimulus package to upgrade port, rail, road, and other transport infrastructure. In addition, the government estimates that this initiative will generate some 5000 new jobs. It’ll help the state’s economy grow as it does so.
In one rare cross-border success, Western Australia’s unemployment rate is 3.4 percent – the lowest in the country. Since taking office in 2017, newly elected Premier Roger Cook has produced more than 300,000 new jobs. This strong local economy has pulled in over 300,000 new residents in just the last five years. With the state’s booming population now over three million, the pressure for infrastructure and services continues to grow.
Budget Overview and Economic Projections
The 2025 budget projects that this will return the state to a $2.8 billion surplus by 2028-29, showing responsible financial management is returning to Western Australia. Battles remain as the state faces growing debt, expected to top $38.9 billion by 2025-2026. The government has allocated $1.4 billion for housing supply and another $1.4 billion targeted at health and mental health services, responding to growing community needs.
Underneath all that optimism about doubling down on eastern Ohio and an enviable growth rate lie some unsettling truths. Iron ore royalties are expected to fall by almost 30 per cent. This decline is due to a projected supply glut and weakening demand from China. On July 1st of this year, Western Australians will pay 2.5 percent more for water and electricity. Households will not be getting any power credits in this budget cycle.
“It’s another massive multi-billion dollar surplus, money put away for pet projects like the racetrack at Burswood that nobody wants — but no support for our most vulnerable.” – Basil Zempilas
Infrastructure Investments and Job Creation
The budget’s high point is the detailed $13.8 billion plan to build, maintain and improve the state’s infrastructure. Combined with other projects, this initiative will create thousands of direct and incidental jobs and improve healthcare, transportation, and other industries statewide. We’ve seen firsthand how strategic funding to modernize transport networks and improve connectivity is vital for continuing to drive economic growth.
In his opening remarks, Premier Roger Cook underscored the importance of local production. He challenged all of us to “create more in WA.” This aligns with the government’s “Made in WA” campaign aimed at expanding the state’s manufacturing capacity. By nurturing local businesses, the administration hopes to spur new jobs while improving economic stability.
Additionally, the budget provides $217 million to build a new multi-use community, entertainment and sporting precinct at Burswood. Another $30 million will go toward upgrading women’s sporting infrastructure. The flyaway $60 million Meanwhile, an extra $60 million is budgeted to help establish a new National Rugby League (NRL) franchise. These investments are a sign of the times and the Biden Administration’s focus on improving community connectivity and encouraging healthy, active living.
Social Services and Support for Households
WA Planning Minister Rita Saffioti has underlined how serious the rising cost of living has become, stating that due to smart budget provisions, the average household will notice an increase of around $50 in Western Australia. The purpose of this joint statement is to provide assurance to residents at a time of rising utility costs and other economic burdens.
The $20M for paramedical health and mental health services signals the provincial government’s awareness of increasing community demands. With people’s well-being under increasing threat, these strategic investments are more important than ever to make sure residents get the help they need to thrive.
Questions continue to linger about protections for disadvantaged communities. Critics have voiced concerns that while the budget emphasizes infrastructure and development projects, it may overlook essential services needed by those facing economic hardships.
“We aim to be a renewable energy powerhouse and successfully navigate the global uncertainty we now face.” – Premier Roger Cook
