The Property Council and the City of Perth today launched a joint report, 'Capital Perth', which demonstrates that central Perth is the social and economic powerhouse in Western Australia.
President of the Property Council in W.A., Mr Tony Packer, said "The Report shows that central Perth is the social and productive meeting place at the centre of W.A.'s community.
With $17.5 billion in property, generating $4.4 billion in wages, and the highest growth rate in all businesses in Australia, Perth is powering our economy.
"It is a contribution that is often overlooked.
"Perth is the cultural, retail and political heart of the metropolitan area. It provides highly specialised goods and services, from antique coins to open-heart surgery. It is the cultural centre of Perth. It is the central point of access to WA and for Western Australians to the nation.
"The report also shows that Perth is increasingly becoming a residential centre, recording strong growth rates in population, albeit from a small base."
Executive Director of the Property Council, Mr Joe Lenzo, said that the Property Council will use the report to show the State and Federal Governments that central Perth should not be neglected.
"The political debate has focused on regions at the exclusion of the central city," said Mr Lenzo.
"We must address this imbalance."
"It is time that the political focus moved from the regions to recognise the importance of central Perth."
"This report clearly shows how vital Perth is as a social and economic hub that is a large contributor to our economy and society, yet it is in danger of neglect."
Capital Perth follows last year's Property Council report "Capital City Co-ordination for the 21st Century" which initiated moves to address Perth's planning and development needs. It served as the catalyst for the creation of the Central Perth Planning Committee.
A further report will be prepared to highlight what needs to be done to build on Perth's strengths for the years ahead.
Mr Lenzo said that the report was the product of cooperation between the City of Perth and the Property Council.
"The success of the collaborative approach of the Property Council and the City of Perth serves as a model for future partnerships between the private business sector and Government," he said.
"We hope to work with all levels of Government to build on Perth's strengths for the future."
