Planning Minister Rita Saffioti is encouraging local governments to fast-track community infrastructure projects to help support small businesses and local jobs during Western Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19.
The Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) is inviting governments to apply to use cash contributions collected from developers to undertake improvement works on open space, community facilities and infrastructure.
Six local governments have already been successfully approved for funds:
- City of Gosnells – $1,400,000
- City of Greater Geraldton – $1,208,973
- City of Kalamunda – $524,927
- City of Albany – $116,000
- Shire of Mundaring – $94,674
- City of Wanneroo – $444,000
Under the State’s planning framework, developers progressing a subdivision can be granted permission to provide cash payments to local governments for reinvestment in public open spaces, in lieu of setting aside land in a subdivision.
As the State responds to the impacts of COVID-19, greater flexibility will be provided to local councils to reinvest these funds to help kick-start local economies.
This initiative will inject essential activity into local economies, bringing forward community works overseen by local governments and providing contracts for local businesses and much-needed jobs for Western Australians.
Community-enriching projects funded via this program in the past have included sporting facility upgrades, nature-based playgrounds, skate parks and recreation centre improvements.
Opportunities to refurbish or replace ageing community infrastructure in those areas such as toilet blocks, shade structures, barbecues, cycle paths and footpaths will also be considered.
As stated by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The McGowan Government is committed to getting our economy moving in the wake of the unprecedented challenges brought on by COVID-19.
“We are exploring every avenue available to support economic recovery and provide employment to the thousands of Western Australians impacted in recent weeks.
“We want to support local governments to drive benefits in their community – I encourage them to consider projects that can be fast-tracked, and to submit an application to the WAPC to reinvest any funds they hold.
“This is a great opportunity to deliver community infrastructure and enhance public spaces.”
