Arabic version: رئيس وزراء WA ينتقد تخصيصات الميزانية الفيدرالية للإسكان ورعاية المسنين
Western Australia Premier Roger Cook has expressed support for the federal government’s recent budget, particularly its focus on housing. Cook’s comments come after the Albanese government’s ambitious fifth budget was unveiled this week. According to ABC News, Cook emphasized that his administration will advocate for Western Australia’s interests while navigating its relationship with Canberra.
Despite backing the budget’s housing initiatives, Cook raised concerns over the federal government’s changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The overhaul is expected to transition over 160,000 individuals to state-run support programs by 2030. Cook stated, “As is often the case, the state government is always the provider of last resort. So we won’t let people down, but we are concerned about any potential exposure in relation to the costs and operational arrangements.”
Cook’s government also criticized the federal budget for its perceived lack of investment in infrastructure within WA. State Treasurer Rita Saffioti pointed out that the budget’s focus was primarily on a major project in Victoria, the $200 billion Suburban Rail Loop, which received an additional $3.8 billion. In contrast, WA was allocated $552 million for a road upgrade linked to a future container port in Kwinana.
Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas echoed the government’s sentiments, highlighting concerns over aged care funding. The federal budget allocated $3.7 billion for aged care, with $1.7 billion earmarked for new aged care beds, though it remains unclear how many will be available in WA. Zempilas questioned why West Australians seemed to be overlooked in this allocation, especially given the pressing need for aged care solutions in the state.
Cook reiterated the urgency of addressing aged care demand, noting that over 350 individuals currently occupy hospital beds who would be better served in aged care facilities. He stated, “We are facing a tsunami when it comes to aged care demand as you see the baby boomers start to age in Western Australia, and so we need to actually ensure that we increase supply.” Cook’s ongoing dialogue with the federal government reflects the challenges faced by WA in securing adequate resources and funding for its residents.
