City of Wanneroo embraces Commonwealth’s Smart Cities Plan

Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said the plan was a very welcome response to the strong advocacy undertaken by the City and the National Growth Areas Alliance via its Fund Our Future campaign.

But while the ’30-minute city’ aspiration sounds fantastic in theory, she said local residents who currently endure commutes of up to 90 minutes need further evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to matching words with action.

"The City of Wanneroo is growing at an increasingly rapid pace and this growth is expected to continue for the next 50 years. This presents both opportunities and challenges for the region when it comes to employment creation, infrastructure and meeting the evolving needs of our fast growing community,” she said.

“We welcome this plan, and the proposed heavy rail extension to Yanchep, a future metropolitan hub, as it has the potential to bring infrastructure and employment opportunities to our City, particularly in developing areas such as Alkimos and Neerabup.

“It is important that local, state and federal government work together to ensure the best outcome for communities in outer metropolitan areas, to unlock the potential of future industries and create local jobs and economic growth.”

The plan includes the commitment of $50 million to accelerate planning and development works on major infrastructure projects throughout Australia.

“This type of fund would unlock diverse ranges of employment, investment and social infrastructure. For Wanneroo it is the opportunity for further discovery in the areas of aquaculture, agriculture, renewable energies and other innovative enterprises,” said Mayor Roberts.

“I am excited about the possibilities this plan presents for the future as we continue to build and grow together.”

Residents and those working in fast-growing outer suburbs are encouraged to take part in the Fund Our Future campaign by signing and sharing the petition at www.fundourfuture.info