Saffioti fuelling nation’s highest inflation

Media Release | 25 March 2025

Sandra Brewer MLA

Shadow Treasurer; Housing; Women’s Interests

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Perth is the loser again, as Treasurer Rita Saffioti retains the title for the highest inflation

in the nation with prices rising 4.9 per cent over the past year – the worst of any capital

city, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

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Shadow Treasurer Sandra Brewer said West Australians were paying the price for the

Cook Labor Government’s economic mismanagement.

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“Treasurer Rita Saffioti has her foot firmly on the accelerator – and WA households are

paying for it through higher inflation,” Ms Brewer said.

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Perth’s inflation spike comes alongside consecutive interest rate rises, compounding

pressure on families already struggling with the cost of living.

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“Rising inflation and rising interest rates are a double hit for households, and the Cook

Labor Government cannot wash its hands of responsibility,” she said.

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Housing costs remain a major driver, surging 14.8 per cent over the year – double the

next highest capital.

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In February alone, other capital cities only recorded as high as 0.1 per cent CPI growth.

However, Perth’s CPI basket rose 0.6 per cent, which would see prices up 7.9 per cent if

replicated over a year.

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Ms Brewer said government decisions were adding to the pressure.

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“While families are tightening their belts, this Government is driving up costs –

competing for scarce building materials and failing to rein in rising electricity prices,”

she said.

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“With inflation already running hot in Perth, households cannot afford more inaction on

the essentials.

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The unfolding crisis in the Middle East is set to impact the next CPI release. The

Opposition will continue to urge the Cook Labor Government to address the fuel

security crisis for West Australians and take responsibility for the cost-of-living

pressures facing West Australians.

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