Federal funding of major transport projects in Western Australia is set to fall to less than one-sixth of current levels over the next four years.
CCF WA’s analysis of the Federal Government’s Infrastructure Investment Program shows WA will receive just $688.4 million in 2028/29 – less than 5% of the national total.
Confirmation of 50% funding for the Leach Highway/Manning Rd intersection upgrade and the Kwinana Freeway widening is welcome. It's been reported the Budget includes a substantial allocation for “decisions taken but not yet announced” so in the lead up to the Federal election we may also see a commitment to match the State Government’s $225 million commitment to fixing the intersection of Reid Highway and Erindale Road.
Disappointingly, there are no new major commitments to fixing WA’s regional roads.
The Federal Budget does include $1 billion in defence spending brought forward and an additional $10.6 billion in total over the next four years. Some of that is expected to go towards WA infrastructure upgrades needed for the AUKUS submarine deal – CCF WA is seeking more information on the details.
Civil apprentices miss out again
Our sector has again been dudded with civil construction apprentices not eligible for a $10,000 bonus (increased from $5000) while employers of civil apprentices will miss out on a $5000 Priority Hiring Incentive.
Civil Contractors Federation National CEO Nicholas Proud called for recognition and funding of the civil construction sector as a priority workforce, essential to unlocking both infrastructure investment and national housing targets.
“Until governments invest in the men and women who deliver roads, water, power, and subdivisions, the housing pipeline will remain stalled,” Mr Proud said.
“You cannot invest a dollar in housing until you invest a dollar in civil. Australia’s housing challenge cannot be solved without civil construction.”
What else is in the Federal Budget for businesses?
The Business Council of Australia says the 2025 Federal Budget should have done much more for business, including positive action to incentivise state and territories to undertake economic reform and improve productivity.
About 1 million small businesses (defined as those with annual electricity consumption of less than 50MWh) will receive a $150 electricity bill rebate.
The $20,000 instant asset write-off scheme will be cut to $1,000 from July 1.
Peak business groups criticised the Government’s decision to ban the use of non-compete clauses for employees earning less than $175,000.
CCI WA’s Aaron Morey said: “This measure will make it harder for businesses to protect their legitimate interests by ensuring workers do not unfairly use insider knowledge to help a new employer.”
