Opposition Leader Supports Key Industry Priorities
The Property Council of Australia has welcomed the Leader of the Opposition Mark McGowan’s support of the property industry at a marque lunch (19th August).
His comments, which align with many of the Property Council’s key advocacy priorities, come ahead of the launch of the 2017 State Election Advocacy Agenda.
Speaking at the industry lunch McGowan said if elected Premier he would maintain Development Assessment Panels (DAP), but did concede there may be some tweaking including changes to improve transparency and turn-around times.
“Retaining the current DAP model has been at the centre of the Property Council’s advocacy work in 2016 and McGowan’s commitment comes as a welcome news,” Property Council WA Executive Director Lino Iacomella said.
“On another issue affecting the industry, Mr McGowan promised no increases to Land Tax if elected, while also committing to reviewing the issue of aggregation. Additionally, Mr McGowan commented that the Labor party fully supports the introduction of community titles, a move that will make the development of precincts far more streamlined
“The comments from the Leader of the Opposition are very welcomed and rightly identify the role the industry can play in keeping WA growing,” Property Council WA Executive Director Lino Iacomella said.
“Mr McGowan’s commitment to no land tax increases is particularly welcomed with property owners being slugged with three rate rises in the last four years.”
Mr McGowan also reaffirmed his previous commitment to introduce an independent infrastructure coordinating agency.
The Property Council is now calling on the State government to match the Opposition’s commitment to the industry by supporting DAPS, passing the long-awaited strata reforms and reviewing the current Land Tax aggregation system.
“By doing so, both sides of the aisle can give confidence to the industry leading to more long-term investment and the productivity necessary to boost the economy and keep WA growing,” Mr Iacomella said.