"Today’s WA State Budget highlights how resources success can be used to broaden Australia’s industrial base," Kristian Stratton, WA State Manager of the national employer association, Ai Group, said tonight.
"An operating surplus of $3.3billion and predicted continued economic growth over the coming years is welcome news that will provide WA business some reasons for optimism," Mr Stratton said.
"Ai Group welcomes investment in key infrastructure projects and a focus on supporting new additions to our industrial base through critical minerals, industrial land and trade initiatives.
"However, the success of this diversification will be reliant on having a skilled workforce and will require government to promote and attract workers, domestically and internationally.
"For WA to attract skills domestically and for the migration program to have the impact required, it is vital that the issues of housing costs and availability are at the forefront of thinking in all government decisions.
"We are hearing loudly from our members that even if we can attract workers, housing becomes the blocker.
"WA's contribution and the opportunities the state presents for global investment are going to drive economic success nationally, making it critical that both state and federal governments are working closely to ensure WA is seen globally as a place to live and financially prosper," Mr Stratton said.
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