Federal budget cash welcomed by major parties

State politicians from both major parties have welcomed increased infrastructure spending in the South West outlined in the Federal Budget.

News of a $122 million Federal injection into the Bunbury Outer Ring Road project was announced ahead of Tuesday’s delivery of the Budget and remained the main point of interest.

But Bunbury MLA Don Punch, Murray-Wellington MLA Robyn Clarke and South West MLC Steve Thomas all labelled the investment into the region as a major positive.

Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan said investment into the road as well as Busselton Airport were important decisions he supported.

“I’m not complaining about Bunbury’s position, we’re getting really solid support from the State Government with our Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront and other projects,” he said.

“The fact that taxation is going to come down over time will mean more cash ... into the economy.

“Hopefully that will enable people with discretionary spend to buy that extra dress or that extra shirt or have that extra meal or go to the movies or what have you.”

Forrest MHR Nola Marino said the Government had balanced the books which would ensure it could deliver on its promises.

“This ensures we can pay for what we promise, create more local jobs by backing our businesses, lower taxes so families keep more of what they earn and guarantees critical local services,” she said.

“These new investments will continue to help make our community an even better place to live, work and retire.”

While the ring road investment was widely welcomed, Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray said he would have liked to see money set aside to widen Bussell Highway.

“This stretch of road has been repeatedly flagged for Federal Government funding, due to the congestion and delays caused by its inability to handle weekend traffic loads,” he said.

Mrs Marino said she would continue to fight to ease congestion and improve safety on South West roads.

“That includes pushing for a dual carriageway along Bussell Highway between Capel and Busselton,” she said.