Published on:
Wednesday, 23 October 2024- Western Australia’s population will tick over 3 million this week
- More pressure on the services that Local Government provide
- State needs to address housing challenges head-on
- Need more funding for community sports facilities
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Population Clock, Western Australia’s population will surpass 3 million people some time on Thursday, 24 October 2024.
While a significant event in WA’s history, this presents more pressure for Local Governments to provide services and facilities to meet community needs and expectations.
WALGA President Karen Chappel AM JP urges the State Government to recognise the growing population pressure on Councils, particularly in addressing the shortage of affordable housing.
“100% of our 139 Member Councils view housing as a major challenge in their Local Government area,” said Cr Chappel.
“We are concerned about the supply of rental housing and the affordability of housing in general.”
As part of the 2025 State Election Priorities, WALGA is asking for the State Government to work with Local Governments to officially unlock underutilised Government-owned land for housing initiatives, to increase availability of temporary accommodation solutions and to review the role of Development WA to support housing developments in areas where private developers will not enter.
Cr Chappel is also asking the State to review the Government Regional Housing (GROH) Program.
“We need GROH to be more responsive and coordinated so Local Governments can invest in GROH housing.”
WALGA also recognise that a population of 3 million will place pressure on the use of recreation centres, swimming pools, playing surfaces and parks, as well as arts and cultural facilities and public libraries.
Cr Chappel said,
“We are looking to the State to bolster the very successful but over-subscribed Community Sports and Recreation Facilities Fund (CSRFF) to cater for the inevitable increased usage of Council community facilities.
"We are asking for CSRFF to increase from $20 million to $30 million each year.”
To arrange an interview with WALGA President Karen Chappel AM JP please contact WALGA Media and Communications Manager Simon Beaumont on 0448 896 435 or via [email protected]
