WA 2025–26 State Budget: What It Means for Regional Businesses
The 2025–26 WA State Budget was handed down yesterday, and thanks to our memberships with RCCIWA and CCIWA, DYCCI was represented at the State Budget Lock-In via CCIWA’s Policy Manager, Anthea Wesley.
The budget delivers a strong surplus of $2.5 billion and outlines a $40 billion infrastructure pipeline across the state — with investments in housing, transport, education, health, energy and manufacturing. However, our initial observation is that there’s little in the way of direct support for small businesses. Disappointingly, the payroll tax threshold remains unchanged.
While there’s no silver bullet for small operators, there are still some noteworthy announcements that could impact businesses in the South West:
🔑 Key Highlights for Regional WA & Local Business:
1. Infrastructure Investment
Record spend on regional infrastructure will benefit essential services, transport, housing and job creation. South West businesses may find opportunities to tender, partner, or align with government-funded growth.
2. Industry Diversification
$2.7 billion has been allocated to strengthen advanced manufacturing, renewables, and “Made in WA” initiatives — potentially opening the door for local suppliers and training providers.
3. Cost of Living Support
While the $400 electricity credit has ended, the budget includes $963 million in relief, such as:
- Residential battery rebates and no-interest loans
- $300 KidSport vouchers and student assistance payments
- Flat fare public transport and boosted Regional Pensioner Travel Card
4. Housing & Workforce
$1.4 billion to support housing supply, including initiatives to grow the construction workforce and unlock land for new homes, especially relevant for attracting and retaining workers regionally.
5. Health & Education
$3.2 billion combined for health, mental health, and education — aiming to bolster frontline services and grow WA’s skilled workforce.
6. A Stronger Voice for Regions
While there was significant funding for major sport and cultural developments, there’s growing momentum for greater grassroots and regional support — something DYCCI will continue to advocate for on your behalf.
What’s Next?
We encourage members to stay alert to grant rounds, training incentives, and infrastructure project announcements. DYCCI will share relevant opportunities as they emerge.
Now more than ever, it’s vital that our region’s voice is at the table. That’s what we’re here for.
Your buddies in Business,
DYCCI Team
P.S. If you’re a business owner looking to raise your profile, share your story, or celebrate your achievements — entries are now open for the 2025 Business Excellence Awards, co-presented with BCCI. Nominations close 24 August. More info: www.busseltonchamber.com.au/business-excellence-awards-2025
