Cost of Events To Be Made Public Under A Liberal National Government

Media Release | 16 March 2026

Basil Zempilas MLA

Leader of the Opposition

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If a Liberal/National Government is elected in 2029, it will commit to being fully

transparent with the people of WA with regard to the cost of bringing major events to

Western Australia.

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“West Australians have a right to know exactly how much is being spent to bring events

to this state.

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“It’s taxpayer money — their money — so there is no excuse for secrecy.”

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“The Cook Labor Government’s addiction to secrecy is extraordinary.

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“If elected in 2029, a Liberal/National Government will be fully transparent with the

people of Western Australia.

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“You can’t measure the return on an event if you don’t know what it cost in the first

place. The post-event report should clearly set out attendance, ticketing, revenue and

the total cost of securing the event.”

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“There will be no more hiding behind ‘commercial-in-confidence’ — Labor’s go-to cover

for keeping taxpayers in the dark.

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“Families are under real financial pressure right now — they deserve to know where

their money is going.

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“After a decade of secrecy, it’s time for honesty and accountability.

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“If the Cook Government has any integrity left, it should start being upfront right now.

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“Start with the big-ticket events — how much did AFL State of Origin cost? The UFC? AC

Milan? The Rugby World Cup opener?

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“I’m not saying don’t bring events to WA — I’m saying be honest about the cost so

people can judge the value."

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