Law and order a Budget priority for south-eastern suburbs

BUDGET STATEMENT

S E SUBURBS

LAW AND ORDER A BUDGET PRIORITY

2/5/96

The State Government's ongoing commitment to law and order has been demonstrated in the State Budget allocations for Perth's south-eastern suburbs.

Premier Richard Court said an allocation of $1.7 million would see the construction of a new police station at Belmont in this financial year, while a further $700,000 had been provided for the new Victoria Park/Cannington station.

"This is an example of how the Government's successful debt reduction program has translated into improved delivery of services to the community," Mr Court said.

The Premier said the Budget contained millions of dollars in funding for the area and would see the implementation of important capital works programs in education, police, sport and recreation, and research.

"Perth Zoo will receive significant funds to continue a program of extensive improvements for both animals and visitors, which will provide $12 million for Zoo projects over the next 10 years," he said.

"An allocation of more than $4 million this financial year will be used to upgrade facilities and complete a number of projects including the Western Australian wetlands exhibit complex."

The Premier said $5 million had been allocated to the relocation of CSIRO's Petroleum and Minerals Division to Technology Park at Bentley.

"A further $1 million has been allocated to Technology Park as part of a $4 million upgrade which will see it become the focus of future science and technology initiatives in WA," Mr Court said.

"Funds will also be provided for additions and improvements at a number of high schools in the area.

"A performing arts complex and hall/gymnasium will be built at Como High School at a cost of $1.9 million in 1996-97.

"$500,000 will be spent at Tuart College upgrading science facilities while Kent St High School has been allocated $200,000 for administration, staff and specialist teaching facilities."

Other key initiatives in the Budget are:

+ the safety of Kwinana Freeway would be improved with an allocation of $20,000; and -

+ $750,000 would be spent on the Kewdale Primary School as part of the school rationalisation program.

Homeswest will also continue its building program in the area to progress works valued at more than $3.5 million.

Works committed include 18 homes in Cloverdale valued at $1 million.

Media Contact: Casey Cahill 222 9595