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Investments into shovel-ready projects, renewable energy technologies, and support for the tourism industry are on the cards as part of a $5.5 billion economic recovery plan in Western Australia.
Announced yesterday, the major investment is the next step in WA's COVID-19 roadmap intended to help the state bounce back from the pandemic's economic and social impacts.
As part of the plan WA will invest more than $60 million into shovel-ready maintenance upgrades to vital State Government facilities.
These include improvements to disability access at train stations, refurbishments of WA police stations, and upgrades to Volunteer and Career Fire and Rescue Service stations.
The work is expected to get underway within weeks, which will create an immediate boost in work for tradespeople like electricians, painters, plumbers, builders and carpenters.
Small businesses are set to receive $942.8 million in support that will go toward licence fee waivers, payroll and land tax assistance, and commercial rental support.
A further $66.3 million will go toward renewable energy projects intended to create jobs in the space and improve WA's renewable energy footprint.
The state's tourism industry will also be supported with a $14.4 million package, with roads, buildings and camps in state parks to be upgraded and airlines to be supported to create more affordable flights to regional destinations like Albany, Broome, Carnarvon, Esperance, Kununurra, and Monkey Mia.
The total package includes $2.77 billion in relief and stimulus already approved during the COVID-19 package.
"While COVID-19 is not over, as a result of our success here in WA, we have been able to commence our recovery and that started with the WA roadmap of easing restrictions," says WA Premier Mark McGowan.
"The WA Recovery Plan will help drive the economic and social recovery across the State, to ensure we can recover, stronger than ever.
"This comprehensive plan is unlike anything we've ever seen before in WA. It will deliver a pipeline of short and long-term jobs for Western Australians, supporting and strengthening our existing industries, as well as laying the foundation for jobs of the future."
Updated at 10:19am AEST on 27 July 2020.
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