WA’s state and local governments have pledged to work together on new economic developments.

The WA Local Government Association has launched a review of the State’s Plan for Jobs policy, identifying areas in which Local Governments could capitalise upon, and contribute to, the strategy and its aims.

“With a combined spend in excess of four billion dollars and responsibility for assets worth ten times that amount, the Local Government sector has a marked impact on the WA economy,” WALGA Deputy President Tracey Roberts said.

“Whether it be through everyday operations such as land use planning, service delivery and regulatory responsibilities, or larger-scale infrastructure and place-making projects, Local Governments are looking for ways in which they can enhance their impact on economic development, and the consequent benefits this brings to local communities.”

The review will explore opportunities for individual Local Governments to work with the State on their economic development priorities and align local activities with them.

In addition, WALGA has established a major project to support the sector in this work, with an Economic Development Framework to be finalised within the next three months.

Cr Roberts said supporting and building WA’s economy is a state-wide issue and will only be achieved through strong collaboration.

“Whilst Local Government might be creating an impact in our own right, we also see the importance of supporting State Government priorities and policy development - a process greatly enhanced by our current State and Local Government Partnership Agreement,” she said.

“It is very important that we all share the same vision and objectives to provide opportunities for our West Australian communities.”