Shire President Discusses Critical Issues with Premier and Minister

Shire President meets with Premier and Minister

On Friday 12 April Shire President Julia Meldrum and temporary Shire CEO Arthur Kyron met with State Premier Roger Cook, Hon. Donald Punch MLA and Jane Kelsbie MLA to discuss some of the critical issues facing the Shire of Augusta Margaret River. Emergency and affordable housing, long-term funding for social services and investment in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park were key items on the agenda.

During the half hour meeting the Premier and Minister Punch showed genuine interest in the issues raised and Shire President Julia Meldrum said the meeting was extremely positive. 

“I’m confident that the Premier and the Minister heard our message loud and clear. This is the time for telling the truth - although the perception is that we are a wealthy region, that isn’t the reality for many members of our community.” 

The discussion raised issues around the need for long-term support for local social care and housing, with several solutions put forward by the Shire.

The meeting also addressed the need for funding to support the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, the most visited national park in WA with over 4.5 million visitors in 2022. The popularity of the Park has led to environmental threats and damage from feral animals.  

“To preserve our status as a premium tourist destination we need to protect our assets. We need investment to curate and protect the natural beauty of the region.” Julia added.

The Shire is committed to building a strong partnership with the State Government to address the complex issues that impact the community.