Friday, 22 March 2024
MEDIA RELEASE
Calls for payroll tax rebates to attract interstate workers
The Property Council WA is proposing two-year payroll tax rebates for employees who relocate to Western Australia to attract skilled workers.
The recommendation is part of the Property Council WA’s State Election Platform, which is currently being presented to the state’s political parties and members of Parliament ahead of the
2025 election.
Under the proposal, an employer who relocates an employee to WA would be reimbursed the payroll tax paid on that employee once they’ve lived in the state for two years.
Based on a salary of $100,000, an employer would be reimbursed roughly $11,000 after their employee has lived in WA for two years.
The proposal could help companies offset the costs associated with relocating workers and incentivise businesses to shift towards permanent relocation workers to meet skill gaps.
Comments attributable to Property Council of Australia WA Interim Executive Director Emily Young:
“Western Australia’s tight labour market is one of the biggest challenges to businesses currently.
“This is a critical issue in the state’s construction sector which is vital to building the homes we need to house every West Australia.”
“We need more workers to reach WA’s economic potential and give us a fighting chance in building the homes we need to house every West Australian.
“WA businesses have a unique challenge in recruiting skilled workers, given the appeal of high wages in our massive resources sector. There are also further restrictions on our state’s capacity to build the homes we need because of a large public works schedule.
“To overcome these challenges, the incoming government will need to rollout innovative policies to bolster our state’s workforce, to build the homes we need and for WA to meet its economic potential.
“The need for more workers is well known, and we have all seen the surge of ‘Staff Wanted’ signs. We know WA is a great place to live, and we want Australians from across the country to be
supported in building a life in WA.
“WA businesses need to be empowered to attract the talent we need from other states and territories.”
ENDS
Media contact: Michael Traill | 0466 112 678 | [email protected]