Breaking: Albanese says WA's GST deal won't change while he is PM

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has firmly stated that Western Australia's Goods and Services Tax (GST) arrangements will remain unchanged for the duration of his time as prime minister. Speaking in Perth during his first visit to the state since the interim Productivity Commission report, Albanese reiterated his commitment to the current deal.

“

What I believe is very clearly, there will be no change to WA's GST arrangements whilst I'm prime minister.

"What I believe is very clearly, there will be no change to WA's GST arrangements whilst I'm prime minister," Albanese told reporters. He was pressed multiple times by journalists on the issue but consistently maintained his stance, emphasizing, "There will be no change to WA's arrangements whatsoever on the GST."

The Prime Minister's assurance directly addresses the findings of an interim report by the Productivity Commission. The report, released earlier this month, recommended the abolition of the 2018 GST arrangement, labeling it a "costly mistake" that primarily benefited Western Australia. The commission suggested scrapping the deal to ensure a more equitable distribution of GST revenue nationwide.

“

There will be no change to WA's arrangements whatsoever on the GST.

Albanese's pledge underscores his support for Western Australia receiving its "fair share" of GST revenue. The existing deal, established under the previous Morrison government, has been a significant point of discussion regarding fiscal federalism in Australia. The Prime Minister's firm commitment aims to provide certainty to the state regarding its financial arrangements.

“

fair share