2018-02-26
Greens Regional Development Spokesperson Diane Evers MLC says damning comments about the roll out of Royalty for Regions funds by the Special Inquiry into Government Programs and Projects last week back the WA Greens’ calls on how criteria for R4F funding should have been structured.
“We have long said that R4R funding objectives should require projects to address alleviating local disadvantage and achieving long-term resilience in each region, for example driving the development of more diverse industries,” Ms Evers said.
“The funded projects should also address fundamental regional challenges such as sustainable energy provision and generation; water provision; and recycling and waste management; and should provide incentives to attract permanent residents to regional areas, and service their needs, such as housing affordability and social infrastructure.
“The report highlights how significant funds were often used to build a facility with no plans for ongoing maintenance and operation.
“Among the gems produced by Royalties for Regions were some appalling wastes that should have been picked up.
“I am also pleased to see John Langoulant’s report backs the Greens’ long-running call for the establishment of a WA Parliamentary Budget Office to specifically cost the policies and proposals of all parties leading up to an election.”