WA Waits on Federal Budget as Submarine Base & Environmental Reform Face hurdles
PERTH, AUSTRALIA – November 22, 2023 – Western Australia is holding its breath for clarity on key federal projects as Prime Minister Anthony AlbaneseS recent visit to the state revealed lingering concerns surrounding the AUKUS submarine base and stalled environmental law reforms. While the submarine base is expected to proceed, even local beneficiaries aren’t fully convinced of its benefits, citing worries about housing availability and road congestion from an influx of personnel and workers.
The timing coincides with the federal government’s attempt to overhaul the nation’s surroundings laws - a move crucial for expediting approvals for critical minerals and renewable energy projects. However, neither the Greens nor the Coalition have pledged their support for the proposed reforms, leaving their passage uncertain.
Business groups are urging parties to “work together” to land a deal on the EPBC act reforms, viewing the coming days as critical, particularly after the Liberals abandoned their net zero target.
Western Australian Senator Matt Cook previously scuttled the last attempt to rewrite the environmental laws and is expected to remain a key voice, perhaps influenced by the state’s mining industry.
With only one sitting week remaining, the outcome of the budget update – to be handed down before Christmas – will be closely watched for any potential “present” offered to West Australians.
