Leader of The WA Nationals Shane Love MLA has condemned Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia for abandoning his responsibilities to the State’s racing industry by failing to support vital racing infrastructure projects across regional WA.
Mr Love said The Nationals in Government will guarantee the return of the $25 million Labor has cut from the WA regional racing industry, ensuring clubs can continue operating and making a vital contribution to the State’s economy.
“Without this funding, regional clubs will face increasing challenges to operate long-term, and many smaller clubs will likely be forced to close their doors.”
“This broken promise by Labor is a devastating blow to the WA industry, particularly for clubs in Albany, Kalgoorlie, and Geraldton, where racing employs thousands of locals and plays a critical role in regional economies.” Mr Love said.
“Investment in these projects is essential to maintaining the highest safety standards and ensuring the industry’s sustainability, yet the Minister has turned his back on race clubs and the communities that rely on them.”
Shadow Minister for Racing and Gaming Peter Rundle MLA said while the WA racing industry generates close to $1.3 billion annually for the State’s economy, it faces a $150 million backlog in critical infrastructure upgrades required for its long-term viability.
“This funding is not about luxury upgrades, it’s about safety, maintenance, and replacing facilities that are up to 80 years old. It’s about keeping the industry alive.”
“No one wants to see race clubs shut down. The WA racing industry deserves stability and strong support, exactly what they will get from The Nationals WA, in contrast to Labor’s ongoing neglect and abandonment of regional communities.”
Regional racing infrastructure funding Labor is withdrawing that will be reinstated under The Nationals WA:
Albany, including Mount Barker and Pingrup $4.96 million.
Gascoyne $455k.
Goldfields-Esperance $2.8 million.
Kimberley, including Broome and Kununurra $2.6 million.
Midwest, including Dongara and Geraldton $2 million.
Peel, including Pinjarra and Williams $9.72 million.
Pilbara $100k.
South West, including Bunbury, Busselton and Collie $935k.
Wheatbelt, including Narrogin, Northam, Wagin and York $1.6 million.
