A new WA whole-of-government ministerial taskforce is set to explore ways to support the state’s businesses and consumers in the face of climbing fuel prices and ongoing impacts of the Middle East conflict.
The WA Government’s Industry Support Working Group (ISWG) will meet for the first time today to discuss the ongoing impacts of the Iran War and how the government can best support industry.
Deputy Premier, Rita Saffioti will chair the group and task senior Ministers to consult widely with industry stakeholders to assess the cost pressures and supply chain risks facing WA.
“We are working closely with critical industries to understand how the current fuel security challenges and rising costs are affecting their operations and what this will look like for every day Western Australians,” said Minister Saffioti.
“Across the economy there will be different impacts, and we want to work with key industry groups on how we can support them during this time.”
It’s envisaged the Group will recommend targeted measures to support local businesses, strengthen supply chain resilience, and reduce pressure on Western Australian households.
It follows meetings with key housing and freight industry leaders, to understand the impact of fuel security on housing delivery and transport of essential food and groceries across the State.
“We want to do everything we can to keep WA’s economy strong and ease the pressure on Western Australian businesses and consumers,” said Premier, Roger Cook (pictured).
“That’s why it is so important we have a direct line to the people on the ground – ensuring business carries on as usual despite current challenges.
“My government will continue working closely with fuel suppliers to support a stable and reliable supply across the State, including in regional communities.
“This group is yet another way we will continue to come together to work on making Western Australia even more resilient to these global challenges.”
Premier Cook has also written to the five biggest fuel suppliers, to demand greater visibility of the fuel supply chain to help the government manage potential fuel challenges to help affected industries, in particular, the agricultural industry preparing for seeding and essential food crops.
