The City of Mandurah is urging the Federal Government to focus on job creation, not drug testing welfare recipients.
A Special Council Meeting was held last night to reiterate the City's first priority was creating employment for the region and to remind parliamentarians of important job creation projects including Transform Peel and the eastern foreshore revitalisation.
Rather than having Mandurah used as a trial site for the testing, Council voted to support community based initiatives to reduce drug use, subject to consultation with the community and the development of a treatment pathway in conjunction with a local provider.
Mayor Marina Vergone said unfortunately there had been no consultation between the City and the Australian Government about the drug testing prior to the media announcement being made on August 27.
“As well as the lack of liaison with the City and local community, there is also no information about the treatment process and support services available should an individual be referred for treatment.
“Many cities across Australia are dealing with drug issues in the community, and it’s concerning that Mandurah was singled out and has had its reputation damaged by this proposed trial.
“We’d like to stress to the Australian Government that we need to focus on creating employment and education opportunities, as this will greatly assist people in our community to have more meaningful lives.
“Mandurah has a positive story to tell in terms of its future potential as a thriving, independent, regional city.”
The Council has also shown its support for a local program to help people transition into work, like the Career Transition program announced for Perth’s northern suburbs.
Bali quad bike crash victim Joshy Schuetz recovering in Perth Children's Hospital
Free public transport for West Aussies over summer
Peel Thunder's Bo Allan becomes an Eagle
Christmas on the Murray 2024
Man charged over Henderson hit-and-run crash
Manslaughter charges dropped against man accused of Mandurah boat tragedy
Rockingham boy critically injured in Bali quad bike crash
Christmas cheers returns to Mandurah
City of Mandurah launches new community safety strategy