Shining the spotlight on City concerns

Mayor Roberts, who serves as the Deputy Chair of the National Growth Areas Alliance (NGAA), said the Inaugural NGAA National Congress provided a valuable lobbying platform for the City in its quest to secure additional federal funding for the community.

"The City of Wanneroo is one of Australia's fastest growing local governments, attracting some 8,000 new residents each year, and we need support from the State and Federal governments to help us provide the infrastructure and services demanded by a rapidly growing community," Mayor Roberts said.

"The recent extension of the much needed rail line to Butler was welcomed by residents, however it is vitally important for the government to renew their previous commitment to extend the line up to Yanchep by 2020, as previously recommended in the Department of Transport WA's transport master plan.

"In addition, the extension of the Mitchell Freeway up to Hester Avenue must remain a priority, and when complete it will provide better access to economic growth areas in the Neerabup industrial district and Clarkson town centre.

"Better transport links to these areas are expected to have a positive effect by increasing local job opportunities, particularly in the manufacturing sector."

Mayor Roberts said the City's young people will also be in the spotlight.

"The City of Wanneroo is young and vibrant, with one in 10 of Western Australia's youth population* calling the City home," she said.

"This creates a massive challenge for us in terms of providing jobs for young people now and into the future, but it also presents a real opportunity for us, because we have ready access to a young labour workforce.

"I welcome the chance to bring these important issues to the spotlight at the Congress to ensure the voices of our community members are heard."

Note: * 25 years and under