Premier's statement for 2011
The Premier of Western Australia Colin Barnett addressed the WA parliament ahead of the Liberal-National Government’s third year in government. As well as speaking about the devastation and loss across Australia over the summer due to floods, cyclone and fires, and which he said have shown Australians to be a people of bravery, resilience, fortitude and generosity, Mr Barnett made reference to the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) that will be held in Perth this October.
Mr Barnett said, “For the first time in the state’s history, we will host CHOGM. Fifty three world leaders representing a quarter of the world’s nations and over two billion people, together with around 4,000 delegates and media, will descend on Perth in October.
“Half of all Commonwealth countries are to the west and near north of Australia. Perth is Australia’s gateway to southern Asia and the Indian Ocean rim. CHOGM provides us with the opportunity to show the rest of Australia and the world that Perth is more than just a trading post to these international markets. It is our chance to come of age and portray Perth as Australia’s western capital – a mature, outward looking city, at the centre of the world’s fastest growing and economically significant region.”
The Premier also reflected on the important legacy that such a high profile event will have on Perth and the State as a whole. A legacy that will include an upgrade of facilities within the capital of Perth, the building of the important political, business, trade and cultural links and the opportunity to make an unforgettable impression on a new audience of international visitors.
Mr Barnett also made reference to the strong and secure state of WA’s economy over the past year despite the difficult economic environment. “Western Australia’s resources sector is generating significant investment activity, the likes of which this state has not seen before. A$170 billion worth of projects are either underway or in the pipeline over the next five years,” said Mr Barnett.
The Premier also noted that in 2010, Western Australia accounted for 44 per cent of all of Australia’s merchandise exports and over 70 per cent of Australia’s merchandise exports to China.
The Premier’s statement welcomes in the new Parliamentary year pinpointing the on-going strength and success of WA as a destination for investment, tourism and education into 2011 and beyond.
If you would like to read the complete statement from Premier Colin Barnett visit the media statements page.
