Premier Roger Cook has indicated that further targeted relief measures could be introduced in this year's State Budget to assist West Australian households struggling with escalating cost-of-living pressures. Amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East affecting global fuel supplies, the Premier emphasized his government's commitment to supporting families facing financial hardship.
Permanent Free Public Transport Initiatives
As previously reported, the Budget will allocate $70 million to permanently lock in free public transport on Sundays and for students traveling to and from school. This initiative is projected to save families up to $560 annually if they have two children using buses or trains for school commutes.
Potential Expansion and Monitoring
When questioned about expanding free public transport to additional days if the fuel crisis persists, Mr. Cook stated that his administration would closely monitor the impact of the Middle East conflict on Western Australia. He highlighted ongoing efforts to identify opportunities for providing cost-of-living assistance.
"We're always on the lookout for how we can provide cost of living support and relief, and a Budget is a time when you continue to have that conversation internally with government, and of course, we'll make announcements as appropriate in time for the Budget," he explained.
Further Relief Measures in the Pipeline
Ahead of the Budget's release on May 7, Mr. Cook hinted at additional measures being developed. "We may take the opportunity to provide cost of living relief across a whole range of different areas," he noted, suggesting that various sectors could benefit from upcoming policies.
Call for Local Government Restraint
With local governments forecasting rate increases of up to 8 percent, the Premier urged them to minimize hikes to alleviate burdens on taxpayers and ratepayers. "We hope that the fuel crisis is a temporary impact and I would expect governments ... to do everything they can to minimise the impact on taxpayers and ratepayers," he said.
Uncertain Global Context
Mr. Cook pointed to the recent brief reopening and subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz as an example of the volatile situation disrupting global fuel supplies. He stressed the importance of preparedness for potential worsening conditions.
"We live in uncertain times," he remarked. "It's a fast-moving situation. We're buoyed by the prospect that the Straits of Hormuz were open yesterday. Today, they say they're closed. Who knows what's going to happen tomorrow?"
The Premier's comments underscore a proactive approach to economic challenges, with the State Budget poised to address immediate household concerns while navigating broader international uncertainties.
