The newly established Productivity Commission in Western Australia aims to enhance the state’s economic development amidst global changes. Premier Roger Cook unveiled the initiative during a breakfast event on March 5, 2025, at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, coinciding with the Resources Technology Showcase 2025. The commission is designed to provide the government with strategic advice to ensure Western Australia remains a leader in economic performance.
According to Cook, the Productivity Commission will integrate the strengths of Infrastructure WA and the Economic Regulatory Authority. He emphasized that it would function similarly to a robust research and development program found in successful resource companies. “An effective research and development program is a core part of remaining ahead of the pack,” Cook stated. The commission’s role will be to recommend ways for the state to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Cook announced that legislation to formalize the commission’s objectives and governance framework is expected to be introduced to Parliament in the first half of 2026. This legislative move has garnered support from various stakeholders, including Aaron Morey, the acting chief executive of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA. Morey highlighted the potential for Western Australia to diversify its economy into sectors such as critical minerals, data centres, and advanced manufacturing.
The Premier also addressed the importance of infrastructure investment in reducing carbon emissions. He noted that despite advancements in mining technology, the existing infrastructure remains inadequate for modern energy demands. “Poles and wires may not sound sexy… but the sexiness is in what they will achieve,” Cook remarked. He pointed out that the Pilbara region, which predominantly relies on fossil fuels, accounts for around 40 percent of the state’s emissions.
Cook’s vision for the new commission aligns with Western Australia’s broader goal of creating a sustainable mining industry. By addressing the emissions from the Pilbara, the state aims to transform the region into one of the most sustainable mining areas globally, thereby contributing significantly to national emission reduction efforts.
The establishment of the Productivity Commission represents a proactive step by the Western Australian government to harness economic opportunities and address environmental challenges. With the right frameworks in place, Cook is optimistic that Western Australia can attract global investment and maintain its economic leadership in the years to come.
