The Western Australian government has unveiled a big-spending state budget focused on housing, health, infrastructure, and cost-of-living relief, revealing a $3.5 billion surplus for the current financial year. Every West Australian with a valid driver's licence will receive a $100 fuel voucher to help with rising petrol costs, but the electricity subsidy has not been revived.
Premier Roger Cook warned of economic headwinds ahead amid global uncertainty, while Treasurer Rita Saffioti highlighted the state's eighth consecutive surplus. Net debt is forecast to reach $34.5 billion this financial year, down from $39 billion last year, though the debt-to-income ratio has risen slightly.
Housing remains a key challenge, with Perth's median house price exceeding $1 million. The budget allocates $4.7 billion over four years for housing, including $1.5 billion for 1,591 new social and affordable homes. Rent relief payments are available for those at risk of eviction, and rental reforms will end no-grounds evictions.
Health receives a record $9.1 billion over four years, with $1.5 billion for infrastructure such as new hospitals. However, no funding was allocated for a hospital at Yanchep, and the Bunbury Hospital redevelopment cost has blown out by $100 million.
The government plans to cut 1,500 public service jobs, saving $445 million over four years, and reduce spending on consultants, advertising, and travel by five per cent, saving $50 million. Treasurer Saffioti assured that cuts would target backroom staff, not frontline workers like nurses, teachers, and doctors.
