Leader of The Nationals WA Shane Love MLA has questioned why the Cook Labor Government is spending $11 million in administration and implementation costs to deliver its one off $100 Fuel Support Payment through the ServiceWA app.
Mr Love raised the issue in the State Parliament today, asking the Treasurer why taxpayers are being forced to foot such a significant bill to administer a payment through an app the Government already owns, funds and operates.
In response, the Treasurer pointed to “technology changes” and the administration costs associated with processing hard copy applications.
Mr Love said the explanation would do little to reassure Western Australians already struggling under increasing cost-of-living.
“I can’t imagine why it’s costing taxpayers $11 million if the ServiceWA app already exists and you can already access similar payments online.
“On a day that the Federal Government is bemoaning inflation in their upcoming budget, the Treasurer’s irresponsible spending it out-of-control.”
Mr Love said the Cook Labor Government was pursuing inflationary, short-term “sugar hit” policies instead of delivering meaningful targeted relief to the Western Australians most in need.
“This is a one-off $100 payment that is not means tested, while people in regional Western Australia continue to struggle with the real cost pressures of fuel, travel and accessing essential services,” he said.
“That $11 million in administration costs alone could have been far better directed into targeted support measures like increasing the Patient Assisted Travel Scheme or expanding the Regional Pensioner Travel Card.”
“At a time when families are tightening their belts, the Government should be focused on responsible spending and support that actually addresses cost-of-living pressures, not lazy headline-grabbing policies.
