Particle.news
Download on the App Store

WA Mid-Year Review Lifts Surplus to $2.5b, Channels Windfall Into Housing and Health

The review leans on iron ore royalties to finance programs, underscoring the budget’s exposure to volatile commodity prices.

Overview

  • Treasury projects a $2.5 billion operating surplus for 2025–26, keeping Western Australia on track for an eighth consecutive surplus.
  • Higher iron ore prices delivered roughly $2.5 billion in extra royalties, with elevated gold prices and stronger stamp duty also boosting revenue.
  • The update commits $435 million to housing, including $234.4 million to build 329 social and affordable homes and refurbish 91 dwellings, alongside rent relief and enabling infrastructure measures.
  • Service spending increases include about $1.9 billion for health and $502 million for community services, with $300 million for the Stolen Generations Redress Scheme.
  • Net debt is forecast at $35.7 billion this year and $42.1 billion over the forward estimates, with nearly $1 billion in Synergy and Water Corp dividends deferred to next year, as the opposition calls the housing injection long overdue.