Last week’s WA budget failed to adequately address climate action, says the local government peak.
There has been “a noticeable shift away from broader climate action”, says the Western Australian Local Government Association.
Acknowledging the state budget allows for $3.75 million in funding for urban greening programs, WALGA says greater investment in areas such as coastal erosion and climate resilience is lacking.
“Although the state government’s decarbonisation initiatives are a positive step, there has been a noticeable shift away from broader climate action – particularly in the areas of adaptation and mitigation. While funding for programs like the Urban Greening Grants is welcomed, WALGA has consistently advocated for greater investment in climate action in areas such as coastal erosion, and to support stronger partnerships that enhance climate resilience,” says a statement.
Noting the state is on track toward a surplus of $2.4 billion in 2025-26 – ranking WA the strongest economy in the country – WALGA says failing to sufficiently invest in climate action is a missed opportunity.
“Given the state government’s sound economic management and size of the current and forecast surplus, WALGA is disappointed a number of key policy areas have not been addressed.”
Important priorities have been missed.
Other areas the budget failed to address include a long-term commitment to increase funding for community sport and recreation facilities, and dedicated funding for arts and cultural infrastructure. “Important priorities have been missed,” says WALGA.
However, the peak has welcomed the government’s budget commitment to improving regional road safety.
“WALGA acknowledges the state government’s commitment of $250 million to its Regional Road Safety Program, with this critical funding to go directly to local government roads,” said WALGA president Karen Chappel.
“This funding will deliver proven safety treatments such as road widening, sealed shoulders, and audible edge and centre lines on local government roads,” she added.
In the lead-up to the 2025 state election in May, WALGA advocated on behalf of its 139 member local governments in areas of safer roads, emergency management, efficient regulation, local planning, connected and inclusive communities, and local government reform.
The state budget “contains important measures responding to WALGA’s advocacy,” says the peak, “and we will continue to work with the state government to prioritise investment in areas identified as missed opportunities.”
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