Tracey Roberts (Pearce, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise today to assert the future of the northern coastal growth corridor within the Pearce electorate. As we know, Pearce is one of the largest and fastest-growing electorates in both Western Australia and the nation. The majority of this growth is concentrated in the northern coastal corridor stretching from Butler to Two Rocks, which is undergoing rapid expansion. Currently, this area represents 17 per cent of the Pearce electorate, but by 2041 we expect that figure to surge to 40 per cent. Right now, nearly 40,000 people call this northern coastal corridor home. However, by 2046, that number is projected to exceed 169,000 people, a staggering increase of over 300 per cent. This significant growth is not just a number on a page; it's a clear signal that we need immediate strategic planning, especially in developing community infrastructure focused on recreation, sport, surf and aquatic facilities. Given these projections, the need for an active regional open-space facility in the corridor is urgent. Over the next 20 years, we will require at least two more venues, and by 2070 we will need up to seven.

Despite the rapid growth in the Alkimos area, there is no active regional open space between Tamala Park and Two Rocks. The only active regional open spaces in our north-west subregions are located in Kingsley and Joondalup, which already see over 1.5 million visitors annually, which equates to 4,100 visitors per day. If we do not develop additional facilities soon, that number is likely to soar to 6,300 visitors daily by 2036. Both venues are nearing maximum capacity and simply will not be able to accommodate this increase. We must ensure that our community infrastructure evolves alongside our growing population by engaging in long-term planning and project selection. We must look at the bigger picture and prioritise projects that will have the most positive impact on our communities.

We also need to integrate housing and infrastructure development. It is essential as we build new homes that we also ensure that the necessary supporting infrastructure such as schools, parks and transport are developed simultaneously. Community engagement is also vital. We must listen to the voices of our residents. By incorporating their feedback into our planning processes, we can ensure that our developments truly reflect the community's needs. Flexibility and adaptability in design are crucial. Infrastructure should be built to accommodate future changes in community needs. Think about multipurpose facilities that can adapt to different uses over time. This way we can ensure that our infrastructure remains relevant and useful for years to come.

Collaboration across all levels of government is essential. By working together at local, state and federal levels, we can pool our resources and expertise to tackle complex infrastructure challenges more effectively. The Albanese Labor government has been instrumental in driving this transformation. The extension of the railway to Yanchep and the expansion of the freeway to Eglinton are not just infrastructure upgrades; they are vital investments in our region's future. Plus the Albanese Labor government committed over $50 million to Pearce, and this significant financial support underscores the dedication to fostering growth and development in our rapidly expanding region. These transportation projects and financial commitments are crucial for enhancing connectivity, supporting growth and driving economic impact. Improved transportation infrastructure creates vital links between communities, fostering social interaction and ensuring access to essential services.

The northern coastal growth corridor is home to a growing youthful demographic. This presents a clear need for multipurpose community centres in the emerging suburbs like Alkimos, Eglinton, Yanchep and Two Rocks. These centres will be vibrant hubs of activity offering a wide range of recreational activities and sports facilities, ensuring accessibility for all residents and fostering a sense of community cohesion. We also need to consider our ageing population. It is imperative to create accessible community spaces tailored to their needs, offering social and meeting spaces near essential services and public transport. Given our extensive shoreline, surf lifesaving clubs are critical. These facilities must be integrated into the coastal environment to provide safety services while enhancing the beach experience for residents and visitors alike. Our goal is to create spaces that are flexible, adaptable and inclusive. They will reflect the diverse needs of our growing population. Last week, we welcomed the federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Minister Kristy McBain, to Pearce. She saw for herself the growth potential of Pearce.

It is important that all levels of government, with community members and local businesses, work together to create a community that is accessible, inclusive and well equipped to handle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As we move forward, let us remember that the decisions we make today will shape the future of our communities for generations to come. By planning carefully, investing wisely and staying true to the needs and values of our residents, we can build a future that we can all be proud of. To ensure that new infrastructure projects are community driven, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive approach that emphasises engagement, collaboration and responsiveness to community needs.

Effective community engagement starts at the earliest stages of an infrastructure project. Establishing clear and transparent communication channels with the community is critical. This means informing residents about the project's purpose and potential impacts and benefits right from the outset. Early engagement helps build trust, manage expectations and involve community members in the decision-making process. Listening to community members and stakeholders is a cornerstone of successful engagement. We know that meetings, focus groups and public consultations provide a platform for individuals to voice their concerns, opinions and ideas. Actively involving stakeholders fosters a sense of ownership and ensures that the project aligns with the community's needs and values. Engaging community organisations, local leaders and not-for-profits as partners in the infrastructure project is essential. Collaborative partnerships bring diverse perspectives, expertise and resources to the table. This approach helps not only identify potential challenges but also develop innovative solutions that address community concerns.

Many infrastructure projects involve technical aspects that may not be easily understood by the general public. It is therefore important to provide educational resources and information in accessible formats that empower community members to participate meaningfully. Presenting project details in clear, non-technical language, utilising visual aids and conducting workshops can help demystify complex projects. Community engagement should not be limited to the planning and construction phases. Establishing mechanisms for ongoing dialogue and feedback throughout the project's life cycle is vital. Regular updates and progress reports should be in place to address concerns and adapt the project as necessary to reflect the evolving needs of the community.

Listening and gathering community feedback is critical during both the planning and the evaluation phases of a project. This feedback allows leaders to better understand community priorities and ensures that the infrastructure development meets those needs. It also creates a more competitive application for funding, highlighting community support for the project. Community engagement can be enhanced through workforce development initiatives and project planning. By creating local job opportunities involving community members in the workforce, projects can foster a strong sense of involvement and investment among residents.

Facilities should be adaptable to changing community needs and should incorporate green spaces to enhance the environment. This approach not only benefits the community but also promotes a strong sense of connection, pride and ownership among residents. Engaging residents from the outset, listening to their needs and fostering collaboration will lead to better outcomes. Ultimately this approach not only enhances the effectiveness of infrastructure projects but also provides local jobs, strengthens community ties and builds trust in the planning process.

I conclude by saying how proud I am to be part of the Albanese Labor government that will ensure that they deliver a better future for all Australians, a future made in Australia that builds much more needed community infrastructure, which then creates economic opportunity and does indeed include a thriving community.