Party politics isn’t working for us in our safe Labor electorate. Our community's needs come secondary to the party's political priorities.

 

Time and again, what is important to our community is overlooked by the State Government and attention - and funding - is instead given to marginal seats where votes are needed. 

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Investment in community facilities

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Jubilee Reserve is a prime example of a community need that is overlooked by the state government. It is key regional facility that serves as a hub for multiple community sporting groups.

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While the grounds remain in reasonable condition, the existing facilities have reached the end of their lifespan and are overdue for an upgrade. The current state of the building is discouraging participation, particularly among women and individuals with accessibility needs, as the facilities do not adequately accommodate them.

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Built nearly 50 years ago, planning for future asset renewal was not front of mind, and no funds were set aside for its renewal. In more recent years the local government commenced budgeting for the cost of upgrades. 

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Following extensive consultation a comprehensive master plan for the site's redevelopment was created. The local government has committed $1.6 million for reticulation and lighting upgrades and $2 million to support the replacement of the facilities and is also seeking contribution from the state government to help deliver these much-needed upgrades, ensuring Jubilee Reserve continues to thrive as a vibrant community hub for all.

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Despite consistent lobbying efforts by the local government, user groups, and the broader community, the facility has yet to secure funding commitments from either major party.  The redevelopment of Jubilee Reserve has been a top priority since the Jubilee Reserve Masterplan was developed with the community back in 2021.

It’s unacceptable to see the Labor Government announce a $30 million package for change rooms, equipment, and events to boost women’s and girls’ participation in community sport, but have Jubilee Reserve overlooked. To have this followed by a $186 million announcement for community sporting infrastructure and $5 million for upgrading the soccer facilities in Maylands, while Bassendean still gets nothing is incredibly disappointing.  
 

It is a perfect illustration of how our community's concerns aren't being prioritised by the state government and instead more marginal seats are getting all the attention - and all the funding.

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Major Roads
 

Our community’s vision is for our streets to be walkable, shaded and facilitate active transport. This does not often align with that of the state government’s vision for our main roads which continues to prioritise cars over all else. For example: 

 

Lord Street: the existing state government’s plan is to convert Lord Street into a dual carriageway to direct traffic down to Guildford Road. The planned widening would come at the expense of houses, trees and front yards and does not align with the community’s vision for the street
 

Guildford Road: the state government’s existing plan is to widen Guildford Road, at the expense of the existing mature ficus trees that provide shade, amenity and buffer from the railway.

The community needs to be involved in planning our major thoroughfares so that they become more than just conduits for vehicles and enhance rather than detract from the surrounding areas. 

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High Schools

 

Another example is our local high schools, like Cyril Jackson and Hampton Senior High School, which are crucial for shaping the next generation. Yet, they need significant investment to modernize and upgrade their infrastructure and facilities.

 

We need to shine a light on the needs of our high school students. Kids in our area don’t always have the same privileges as those in wealthier suburbs, but that shouldn’t mean they miss out on opportunities. Every student deserves access to facilities that inspire learning, foster creativity, and help them thrive.

 

Investing in our schools isn’t just about buildings—it’s about equity, opportunity, and ensuring every child has the tools to succeed, no matter where they come from. 

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