BREAKING NEWS: Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas has just announced a bold commitment to implement “genuine taxation reform” aimed at addressing the escalating housing crisis in Western Australia. This urgent plan comes amid ongoing calls for changes to stamp duty as the state grapples with skyrocketing home prices.
In a striking declaration made earlier today, Zempilas pledged that his party would present substantial tax reform ahead of the next state election. “We have to be serious about genuine taxation reform,” he emphasized, criticizing the current government for failing to address the pressing housing emergency.
Currently, first-home buyers in Perth are exempt from stamp duty on purchases up to $500,000, with reduced rates up to $700,000 in the Perth and Peel regions. However, despite recent adjustments in mid-2025, which raised the thresholds from $450,000 and $600,000, housing prices have surged, with the median house price in Perth now nearing the $1 million mark.
Zempilas hinted at significant policy developments to come, stating, “Will the Liberal Party take genuine reform forward to the next election? Yes, we will.” While he did not disclose specific details, the urgency of the situation demands immediate action.
The Cook Government has resisted further changes to the stamp duty thresholds, arguing that hasty decisions could exacerbate the crisis. Housing Minister John Carey warned, “Poorly targeted or rushed changes can add further pressure to a tight market.”
This reform proposal has garnered support from influential property groups. REIWA President Suzanne Brown has publicly advocated for more flexible thresholds to assist home buyers in this challenging market.
As the housing crisis deepens, the implications of Zempilas’ proposed reforms could significantly impact thousands of potential homeowners across the state. The urgency of this announcement resonates strongly with those struggling to enter the housing market.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Liberal Party prepares to outline its comprehensive plan for tax reform, aiming to provide relief in a time of escalating housing costs.
