Published on Thursday, 2 February 2023 at 9:29:11 AM
The Town of Port Hedland has welcomed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s commitment to bringing his Cabinet to Hedland on February 21.
Mr Albanese made the announcement in Perth on Wednesday that the rescheduled trip would take place later this month. The Federal Cabinet was due to sit in Port Hedland last year but was postponed due to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Town of Port Hedland Mayor Peter Carter said Mr Albanese bringing his Cabinet to Port Hedland recognised the significant contribution our region played as an economic powerhouse for Australia.
“We also acknowledge the tireless work of Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan in advocating for this outcome,” Mayor Carter said.
Mayor Carter said the Town would seek a meeting with the Prime Minister, his Ministers and the Premier to discuss ways we could work together to deliver outcomes for Port Hedland.
“While there is a lot to be proud of in Port Hedland, sections of our community still face significant disadvantage, and Hedland is not living up to the expectations people have of a regional town,” he said.
“Many people thought Port Hedland and the iron ore industry would last 20 years and the housing stock and infrastructure quality often reflects that short-sighted view.
“The Town is committed to creating a bright future for Hedland. We need to grow our population and to do that we need to increase our residential workforce.
“This means making Hedland a place people want to live, and ensuring there are affordable housing options. We currently have less than one percent of housing stock available for sale and less than 80 properties available for rent. Yet there are over 600 jobs currently being advertised in the area.
“We will ensure we will do everything we can to strengthen our relationship and partnerships with the Federal Government while the Prime Minister and his Cabinet Ministers are in Port Hedland.
“A strong Port Hedland means a thriving national economy.”
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