Budget commits to cash for Collie

A $20 million investment into a Collie Futures Fund and $18 million to build a specialist drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre will be among the State Government’s Budget commitments to the region today.

Premier Mark McGowan was in Collie before the budget announcing a raft of projects focusing on job creation, education and health and community services for Collie-Preston.

“Our first State Budget includes a big investment in Collie-Preston, with a focus on projects that will create jobs and opportunities for locals as well as improve important services such as health and education,” Mr McGowan said.

“The $20 million Collie Futures Fund will provide a funding source to develop economic activity in Collie and secure long-term jobs.

“The McGowan Labor Government will continue to provide ongoing support to enable Collie-Preston to continue to grow into the future.”

Other allocations include $32 million for a Rail Futures Fund to deliver a revitalised Australind rail service, $15 million for roads, $10.5 million to develop the Kemerton and Shotts industrial parks and $8 million to build a Capel police station.

Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray said the Budget would ensure “big plans” for the electorate became reality.

“In the South West alone, the McGowan Government will spend $636 million on critical infrastructure over the next four years,” Mr Murray said.

“As our population grows, it’s vital we continue to invest in local schools and hospitals and ensure services meet the needs of the community.”