“Forging Tomorrow: The Albanese Administration’s Vision for Western Australia”

The Albanese Labor Administration is constructing Australia’s future, today offering First Port of Entry to three essential ports in the northern regions of Western Australia, alongside a substantial package aimed at enhancing housing and developing community facilities within the state’s areas.

Permissions for increased border operations at Wyndham, Ashburton, and Dampier have been approved by the Albanese Government, allowing goods that are subject to biosecurity and other regulations to be received here and enter Australia.

This will facilitate more direct international shipping routes, enabling businesses and industries in the north to import and export goods in closer proximity to their operations, without needing to transit through more distant ports.

This initiative will particularly benefit businesses and communities in the East Kimberley and Pilbara regions by reducing expenses, enhancing productivity, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening the resilience of WA supply chains, especially for clean energy and green fuel projects.

Today, the Albanese Government is also revealing an investment of over $200 million to enhance housing and deliver community facilities in Western Australia’s regions.

We’re unlocking 1367 new homes throughout the state, with nearly $90 million designated for projects that will establish essential infrastructure such as water, electricity, and roadways, including:

• $32.8 million for the Wheatbelt Regional Housing Initiative to unlock over 400 homes across 10 shires within the Wheatbelt region
• $22.1 million to unlock 591 new residences in Karratha
• $14.2 million for unlocking 86 new homes in a new development in Lockyer.

Homes are not whole without the supporting infrastructure that fosters a community. The Albanese Government is also financing initiatives – such as cultural and sports hubs, town precincts, and parks – to enhance the lives of residents in these areas.

This incorporates $22.8 million from the regional Precincts and Partnerships program along with over $89 million from the Growing Regions program, supporting projects like:

• $1.9 million for conceptual planning and an implementation strategy for the Kununurra Nganjileg lambagem ‘Riverbank Recreation’ waterfront precinct
• $15 million for the construction of the Newman Youth and Community Hub, which will include a barbecue area, a sports court, a cycling track, a sports complex, and childcare facilities.
• $13.2 million for the Wyndham Community Boat Launching Facility, providing a floating access pontoons system, new parking, pathways, and landscaping to enhance local tourism and fishing business activities.
• $7.8 million for the Martu Arts Centres Improvement Project which will deliver three new arts centres to create spaces for learning and culture for communities.
• $15.5 million to facilitate the construction and revitalization of the Carnarvon CBD.
• $19.6 million allocated for the Wyndham Multi-Purpose Community Hub in East Kimberley which will offer sports, education, training, and arts facilities, along with an evacuation shelter.

These projects illustrate the Government’s dedication to heeding local perspectives and investing in priorities that benefit the regions of Western Australia.

The Housing Support Program is part of a suite of initiatives designed to attain the ambitious national aim of constructing 1.2 million new, well-situated homes over the next five years. For additional details, visit: Housing Support Program

The Growing Regions Program facilitates investment in community facilities across Australia’s regional, rural, and remote sectors. For further information and a complete list of successful projects, visit: Growing Regions Program

The regional Precincts and Partnerships Program is providing funding to revitalize regional, rural, and remote areas. For further information, visit: Regional Australia.

Statements attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“My Government is constructing Australia’s Future, investing over $200 million throughout Western Australia in housing and vital community infrastructure.

“Regional WA is a stunning place to reside, work, and visit, and my Government intends to ensure it possesses the housing and amenities necessary for continued growth and prosperity.

“We continuously seek ways to assist businesses and communities – which is why the modifications to First Port of Entry will significantly benefit the East Kimberley and Pilbara, reinforcing local jobs and supply chains.”

Statements attributable to Premier of Western Australia, Roger Cook:

“Our WA Labor Government is collaborating with the Albanese Federal Government to construct more dwellings and execute vital investments right across regional WA.

“Establishing a first point of entry is a critically important measure that will unlock substantial economic prospects across the Kimberley and Pilbara, supporting local enterprises, employment, and communities.

“Permitting direct imports and exports through Wyndham Port presents a major advantage for the East Kimberley’s agricultural, resources, and tourism sectors, reducing costs for local industries and initiating a new chapter for economic development in the area.”

Statements attributable to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King:

“Enhanced border services at the ports of Wyndham, Ashburton, and Dampier will yield a significant impact on local industries and businesses, saving enterprises millions in transport expenses and time.

“With the anticipated doubling of vessels passing through the Port of Wyndham by 2033, this decision bolsters vital Western Australian businesses and supports communities in the northeast of the state.

“This complements other initiatives, including our $115 million commitment towards upgrades to shared user port infrastructure at the Port of Dampier, showcasing how we are investing in the future of Western Australia.

“Western Australia has undergone remarkable growth in recent years as more individuals opt to establish their lives in the west, and our investments are ensuring that the state’s expanding regions have housing and infrastructure supporting community development.”