Performance-linked 'evergreen' contracts for vital community transport service The State Government will deliver on its long-term commitment to maintaining the traditional orange school bus industry through the introduction of so-called 'evergreen' contracts and simpler contractual arrangements. Transport Minister Troy Buswell said the evergreen contracts would allow operators to continue their contract indefinitely, subject to an ongoing need for service in their locality and to meeting a number of key performance indicators (KPIs). "The Liberal-National Government recognises the importance of the service provided by orange school bus operators in regional areas - these services and the people who provide them are…

$1.5million Castle Rock structure replaces old lookout Part of Liberal-National Government's Rediscover Parks program Visitors to the Albany area can now enjoy a spectacular new sight-seeing experience following a revamp of the Castle Rock lookout. The new structure, known as the Granite Skywalk, is located 48km north of Albany in Porongurup National Park. Environment Minister Bill Marmion said the stunning panoramic views from Castle Rock were a must-see for anyone visiting the area. "The $1.5million skywalk includes an upper lookout to replace the old one which was past its use-by-date, along with a lower lookout to provide easier access for…

State Government funding to better equip local steel fabrication industry Commerce Minister Simon O'Brien today announced more that $82,000 in State Government funding to the Australian Steel Institute (ASI) to assist the Western Australian steel fabrication industry. Mr O'Brien said the Government was conscious steel fabricators were in a tough battle to win local resource project contracts. "While demand is strong, changes in technology, the increased presence of Asian fabrication yards and the strength of the Australian dollar are all impacting upon the competitiveness of local businesses," he said. "This funding will enable ASI to engage expert assistance to consider…

Strategy to address recognised light to general industrial land shortfall Land development is a key driver of WA's economic growth Potential land identified to help provide certainty for stakeholders The State Government today released the final Economic and Employment Lands Strategy: non-heavy industrial - a key initiative for the ongoing economic development of Western Australia. Planning Minister John Day said the provision of sufficient and appropriate light to general industrial land in Perth and Peel was a high priority. "By 2031, it is a predicted there will be a shortfall of 3,000ha of land available for light and general industry,"…