The Nationals WA say work is still needed to ensure the communities of Northampton and Kalbarri are supported in their recovery three years on from Cyclone Seroja.
Geraldton candidate Kirrilee Warr said the Cook Labor Government had failed to make progress on numerous local priorities, despite having ample time and funding to do so.
“Speaking to residents and businesses in Kalbarri and Northampton this week has identified several local projects which are keenly needed in the region, yet sadly, the State Government has been missing in action,” Ms Warr said.
“The fact that there is still no evacuation centre in Kalbarri after more than three years is a massive oversight and one which needs to be remedied urgently.”
Ms Warr said the Shire of Northampton had developed plans for a co-located community and evacuation centre, however, it was unable to progress without additional funding.
“I understand this project is expected to cost up to $6 million and the Shire is awaiting the outcome of a Government grant to determine if this much-needed project can proceed.”
Ms Warr also said it was also disappointing no progress had been made on the State Government’s promise to establish workers accommodation in Kalbarri.
“This is desperately needed to house seasonal workers in the busy tourist town, where accommodation has become even more scarce during the housing crisis, as well as to house construction workers and trades needed to build a future evacuation centre.
“This was an election commitment from the Labor Government back in 2021 which delivered nothing but a vacant block of land that the Government has now handed over to the Shire after failing to progress for many years.”
Ms Warr said a proposed redevelopment of the Kalbarri foreshore to create a vibrant visitor precinct was also being sought.
“A funding request was submitted by Tourism WA and the Mid West Development Commission for this project ahead of the State Budget last year, but no funding was allocated.”
Leader of The Nationals WA Shane Love MLA called on the State Government to make funding available to progress these initiatives in the upcoming State Budget.
“Last year, more than $25 million in unspent Cyclone Seroja disaster recovery funding was returned to the WA Treasury coffers, despite numerous projects being in clear need of support,” Mr Love said.
“This is exactly why The Nationals WA will establish a WA Resilience & Recovery Agency, to provide permanent and dedicated support to help disaster impacted communities rebuild, recover, and be revitalised sooner.”
