Perth Council Votes to Investigate Impact of Vacant CBD Properties
The City of Perth council has moved forward with an investigation into the effects of long-term vacant buildings in the central business district, despite the city's administration recommending against the action. This decision came after a motion was put forward by former council candidate and social media business owner Amberlea Henriques at the annual electors meeting in January, highlighting concerns about the number of vacant properties and their impact on the community.
Community Concerns Drive Motion
Ms Henriques' motion was motivated by her personal experiences with anti-social behaviour at a vacant property near her home in West Perth. She described daily incidents, including attempted break-ins, open drug use, and discarded needles littering the street. "If these people were charged slightly more, we'd have more money in the ratepayer kitty to be putting permanent CCTV in place," she stated. She emphasized that property owners often neglect these sites, turning them into community problems, and warned that the issue could be even more severe citywide.
Council Overrides Administrative Rejection
Despite the city administration's rejection, the council voted to proceed with the investigation, incorporating some amendments at their meeting on March 31. Initially, Cr Catherine Lezer proposed advocating for a State legislative review of differential ratings and investigating grants for property owners to enhance security against anti-social behaviour at unoccupied buildings, but this motion was not passed.
Alternative Approach Adopted
Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds then introduced an alternative motion, calling for a more "evidence-based" and "measured approach." This motion requests the CEO to prepare a comprehensive report assessing the extent of long-term vacancies in buildings over 12 months, along with their associated economic and safety impacts. Cr Chris Patton, who operates three businesses in the city and Northbridge, supported this alternative, arguing that business grants are already available and a deeper understanding of the problem is necessary. However, Cr Raj Doshi voted against Mr Reynolds' proposal.
Historical Context and Future Steps
Cr Viktor Ko noted that previous councils had attempted to impose differential rates on vacant buildings but faced challenges at the State Administrative Tribunal, which were unsuccessful. The investigation will also explore ways the city can better support properties affected by vacancy, including measures to improve safety and security. Ms Henriques praised the outcome, stating, "This started as a community concern, and what we've seen through council is a willingness to listen, refine and move forward in a way that is both practical and responsible." She added that vacant properties impact not only the economy but also safety and daily life in Perth, and this motion represents a collaborative effort in governance.
Ms Henriques described the decision as an important first step, emphasizing that it is about properly understanding the issue and identifying actionable solutions within the city's remit while advocating for broader reforms. "As the capital city, there is an opportunity for Perth to lead on this — not just in recognising the problem, but in how we respond to it," she concluded. A report will be presented to the council once the investigation is complete.
