The McGowan Government’s regional development credentials are set to be severely tested as negotiations begin over the future location of a multi-million dollar lithium refinery.
Kidman Resources last week flagged Kemerton Industrial Park, 10 minutes north east of Bunbury, the Mungari Industrial Estate, 20 kilometres west of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and Kwinana as possible locations for the refinery which will process lithium from the company’s Mt Holland lithium mine in the Goldfields.
Nationals Member for the South West Region Colin Holt MLC said it was incumbent on the McGowan Government to step up and advocate for the project to be regionally based.
“The Kidman refinery has the potential to create 400 jobs during construction and an additional 380 full-time roles once operational – this would have a hugely positive impact in Bunbury and surrounding communities if Kemerton was the chosen location,” Mr Holt said.
“Labor continues to tell us how they’re all about ‘jobs, jobs, jobs’ but they are only interested in what happens within the Perth City limits. Meanwhile, Labor are sacking public servants and cutting back on Royalties for Regions.
“This will prove a litmus test for Labor and demonstrate whether the Government’s commitment to creating jobs applies to regional people or if it just for city-based voters.”
“With South West already reeling from the possible loss of the Department of Parks and Wildlife headquarters in Bunbury, this refinery represents an exciting opportunity for the region to grow. Let’s hope the McGowan Government can look beyond the Perth metropolitan boundaries and deliver it to regional Western Australia.”
For media enquiries please contact Office of Colin Holt MLC on (08) 9724 1181
