UPDATE: Perth is facing an escalating crisis as calls for urgent action grow amid rising homelessness and a staggering shortage of occupied shops. The Property Council of Australia has just announced a bold proposal for a dedicated CBD Minister to revitalize the city’s core and combat these pressing issues.
In a report set to be released shortly, the Property Council outlines how this ministerial role would directly address the challenges facing Perth’s Central Business District (CBD). This initiative aims to provide a clear point of contact for the community, businesses, and investors, similar to the recently established regional portfolios by the Cook Government.
Nicola Brischetto, Executive Director of the Property Council WA, emphasized the significance of revitalizing Perth. “Perth isn’t just any city. It’s our capital city,” she stated. “Its success is critical to attracting investment and ensuring the long-term prosperity of Western Australia.”
As Perth grapples with a troubling 21.7% vacancy rate — the highest among all Australian capital cities according to CBRE — the impact of vacant shops is evident. Local workers report that the streets are filled with those experiencing homelessness and substance issues, particularly in the early mornings. One city worker described the situation as noticeable, stating, “You would be hard pressed to go five minutes in the city without finding someone homeless or drug-affected.”
Despite these challenges, there remains hope. The same worker noted the vibrancy of Perth on Friday nights when bars and streets buzz with energy. However, the overwhelming number of empty shops during the week dims this vibrancy.
The call for a dedicated CBD Minister comes at a time when tensions between the city and state government have been reported, particularly during the tenure of Basil Zempilas, the former Lord Mayor. Current Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds aims to mend these relations, acknowledging the government’s recent decision to prioritize hospitals over the proposed $1.6 billion Perth Convention Centre project, which has raised concerns about the city being sidelined.
The Property Council’s forthcoming report proposes several immediate actions, including:
– Establishing a Central Perth Advisory Committee to foster collaboration among stakeholders.
– Enhancing lighting and promoting natural surveillance in central Perth.
– Strengthening partnerships between property owners, local businesses, and police for better handling of anti-social behavior.
– Upgrading key pedestrian areas to improve accessibility and safety.
– Reevaluating public transport routes to enhance pedestrian-friendly access.
Next Steps: Authorities stress the need for immediate discussions on these proposals, urging the state government to recognize the critical state of Perth’s CBD. With the community rallying behind these initiatives, the hope is that a new ministerial role could lead to a more prosperous and vibrant urban landscape.
As Perth continues to struggle with these issues, the call for a CBD Minister is more urgent than ever. The city’s future depends on swift action and a comprehensive approach to revitalization. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as local leaders push for change in the heart of Western Australia.
