Prime Minister Announces $200 Million for Western Australia Housing and Infrastructure

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks to media in Queensland, Australia, on Jan. 6, 2025. AAP Image/Russell Freeman

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has unveiled over $200 million (US$124 million) in housing and infrastructure funding for Western Australia (WA), along with regulatory approval to expand shipping access to three key ports in the state.

The announcement aims to boost regional development, streamline trade, and create economic opportunities across the East Kimberley and Pilbara regions.

The prime minister is currently visiting Kununurra, a town bordering the Northern Territory, as part of his tour following stops in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Expanded Port Access to Boost Trade

In a joint statement with WA Premier Roger Cook and federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King, Albanese revealed that regulatory approval to expand border services at the Wyndham, Ashburton, and Dampier ports would allow for more direct international shipping.

“This will mean businesses and industries in the north can import and export goods closer to their operations, without having to transit through ports further away,” the statement read.

The changes are expected to significantly benefit local businesses in the East Kimberley and Pilbara regions, improving supply chains and supporting economic growth.

Premier Cook described the decision as critically important, saying it would unlock economic opportunities across various sectors, including agriculture, resources, and tourism.

“Allowing direct imports and exports through Wyndham Port is a major boost for the East Kimberley’s agricultural, resources, and tourism industries, reducing costs for local businesses and kickstarting a new era for economic development in the region,” Cook said.

Investment in Housing and Community Infrastructure

The $200 million funding package will be allocated through three government programs: Housing Support, Growing Regions, and Precincts and Partnership programs.

The investment is projected to enable the construction of 1,367 new homes in Western Australia and fund vital community infrastructure projects.

“My government is building Australia’s future, investing more than $200 million across Western Australia in housing and important community infrastructure,” Albanese said.

“Regional WA is a beautiful place to live, work and visit, and my government wants to ensure it has the housing and amenities it needs to continue to grow and thrive.”

Premier Cook also reaffirmed the partnership between the state and federal governments to meet housing needs and deliver vital infrastructure investments.

“First point of entry is a critically important decision that will unlock significant economic opportunities across the Kimberley and Pilbara, supporting local business, local jobs, and local communities,” Cook said.

PM Criticises Opposition Over Housing and Cost-of-Living Policies

Albanese took aim at the opposition, contrasting his government’s initiatives with what he described as the Coalition’s “negativity” and lack of delivery.

“At the next election, Australians will have a choice between a government committed to providing support during tough times, cost-of-living relief, and building Australia’s future, and an opposition committed to going backwards,” he said.

Albanese highlighted his government’s Homes for Australia plan, which includes investment in social housing, private rentals, and the Help to Buy scheme. He noted the scheme was inspired by Western Australia’s long-standing model.

“These announcements today will help provide essential community infrastructure and housing to meet Australia’s needs,” he said.

Meanwhile, Federal Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said that another term under Labor would harm the economy, claiming the Coalition is better equipped to manage finances.

“I don’t think Australians can afford another three years of Anthony Albanese and Labor,” Dutton told reporters in Adelaide.