UPDATE: The Western Australia (WA) Government has just announced a $1 million advertising campaign aimed at promoting the significance of WA’s GST deal, amidst ongoing concerns about its sustainability. This urgent initiative comes as officials strive to ensure that WA’s share of GST remains equitable in the face of potential changes.
The campaign will target the East Coast, utilizing newspapers and billboards to broadcast a critical message: what benefits WA ultimately benefits the entire nation. This comes at a pivotal time, as the GST deal has been under scrutiny by the Productivity Commission, which is expected to deliver a report by the end of next year. Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasized the need for a robust system to support essential services, declaring, “We’re not considering any changes to the GST deal with WA.”
Despite these reassurances, skepticism lingers about future commitments, particularly beyond the current government’s term. Historical context is key; WA’s GST share plummeted to less than 30 cents on the dollar during the economic downturn, prompting years of negotiation to restore fairness. Former Premier Colin Barnett first raised this issue in 2011, highlighting the long-standing challenges faced by WA residents.
Premier Roger Cook has asserted the campaign’s importance, stating, “The bottom line is that WA’s GST is working for Australia.” He called on businesses and communities to unite as “Team WA” to safeguard their share. His sentiments were echoed by Treasurer Rita Saffioti, who declared, “The gloves are off to defend WA’s fair share of the GST,” signaling a clear stance against detractors.
As WA experiences booming economic growth and a budget surplus, the campaign aims to ensure that the state’s contributions are recognized and valued nationwide. The urgency of this campaign is underscored by potential ramifications for all Australians if WA’s position is undermined.
With the campaign set to roll out imminently, residents and stakeholders are urged to pay attention to this critical development. The message is clear: WA’s financial health is intrinsically linked to the broader Australian economy. If the campaign proves effective, it could foster greater regional solidarity and ensure that WA’s needs are met in future negotiations.
This situation continues to develop, and all eyes will be on how federal officials respond as the campaign unfolds. The stakes are high, and the implications for WA—and the nation as a whole—could be profound.
