The City of South Perth has formally aligned itself with growing local government opposition to the Western Australian State Government's proposed $217.5 million Perth Street Circuit.
Unanimous Vote Against the Racetrack
At its meeting on December 16, 2025, the council voted unanimously in favour of a motion put forward by Manning Ward Councillor Andre Brender-A-Brandis. The motion formally opposes the planned motorsport development and directs the council to advise Premier Roger Cook and local MP Geoff Baker of its position.
Councillor Brender-A-Brandis argued the substantial state funds could be far better directed. "$217.5 million could be better applied for other essential State services, including education, relocation, crime and safety prevention," he stated. "It could also be provided for social housing, health services, or main roads and traffic congestion."
Community Impact and Consultation Concerns
The council highlighted a profound lack of proper community engagement as a key issue. Cr Brender-A-Brandis described the vote as an important opportunity for the public to understand the council's stance on the lack of 'specific and targeted' consultation.
Councillor Hayley Prendiville emphasised that while the proposed circuit in Burswood Park falls within a neighbouring local government area, it is a vital recreational space for South Perth residents. "It is where families gather, people exercise and the local community connects," she said. "This proposed development would significantly impact and disrupt the amenity that the residents have come to rely on."
She was particularly scathing about the noise impact, declaring, "A motorsport street circuit bringing with it the noise levels that we have heard is just crazy." Prendiville added that she had spoken to many "terribly concerned" residents and found the project's priority status "quite baffling" given other community needs.
Housing Crisis Versus Motorsport Priority
The debate also touched on broader state priorities. Councillor Bronwyn Waugh pointed directly to the ongoing housing crisis affecting young families, key workers, and older residents. "Yet we are being asked to prioritise a racetrack on land that has long been identified for broader community and residential outcomes," she argued. "This should concern every one of us... there are real consequences affecting real people, right now."
Councillor Tim Houweling expressed specific concern for senior residents seeking peace and quiet, stating this was his primary reason for supporting the motion.
Alliance Welcomes South Perth's Stance
The decision was welcomed by the Save Burswood Park Alliance, whose co-chair, Dr Robin Harvey, said they were "very thankful" South Perth had joined the Town of Victoria Park and the City of Perth in opposition.
"The community believes that any consultation undertaken has not been genuine and that residents have not been included in key stakeholder discussion," Dr Harvey said. "The desires of big business are being prioritised over the needs of the community."
The council's motion solidifies a formidable front of inner-city councils against the controversial project, placing increased pressure on the State Government to reconsider its plans or engage in a more substantive consultation process.
