New push for government department move

Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan has used the recent Regional Cabinet Meeting to ask for a Government department be relocated to the city.

Mr Brennan said he used his presentation to the cabinet to showcase the vibrancy of the city.

“I took the opportunity to talk about the projects that are happening in our city,” he said.

“I reiterated what the Premier said about Bunbury being a vibrant, creative and progressive city. I also took that opportunity to put in a request for the Government to consider relocating a Government department to Bunbury.”

Mr Brennan said he asked for the move to happen during the Government’s second term.

“That gives all of us three-and-a-half years to prepare for that move,” he said.

“I will be following that request with a letter to the Premier this week and we will see how we go.

“It would provide a significant boost to Bunbury-Geographe and also to the South West.”

Mr Brennan said he had no specific department in mind.

“I don’t mind which Government department it is,” he said.

“To bring a few hundred people down here would be outstanding.”

Mr Brennan said he was aware of the difficulties involved in such a request.

“I realise it is a big ask because of the logistics involved with moving families down here – we think the South West is paradise but others may not agree,” he said.

“You have all those things to consider so it is quite a complex matter but we have to start somewhere.”

Mr Brennan said it was too early in discussions to know if the department would take over the site of the proposed Department of Parks and Wildlife.