Labor 'ignoring' South West
Augusta Margaret River Times 17 October 2025
Summary
Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas, joined by Vasse MLA Libby Mettam and Warren–Blackwood MLA Bevan Eatts, toured the South West to highlight what they call inadequate State Government support for booming tourism towns like Margaret River. During the visit, the Opposition criticised Labor for failing to match service investment with the region’s rapid growth, citing strained health, education, and infrastructure systems.
Key Points
Locations visited: Margaret River, Cowaramup, Manjimup; key stops included Margaret River Hospital and Senior High School.
Zempilas: “This Government has completely ignored the Margaret River region”; cited population growth, overcrowded schools, and stretched emergency services.
Mettam: Criticised delays in progressing the Margaret River Hospital upgrade; reiterated Cowaramup Primary’s growth issues.
Eatts: Called on Labor to “stop ignoring the South West,” stressing unmet needs in fast-growing tourism areas.
State Government response: Reaffirmed commitment to monitoring enrolment growth; highlighted recent Cabinet meeting in Bunbury and investments in Bunbury Port and Hospital as evidence of regional support.
Labor counterpoint: Accused the Opposition of inaction during previous terms, pointing to incomplete school expansion plans initiated pre-2017.
