This move comes as state debt is expected to grow, with a projection of $42 billion by the end of the decade. 

Despite earlier promises to reduce state debt, figures show an increase. The current debt stands at $33.5 billion and is projected to rise to $42 billion by the end of the decade, in part due to population growth in Perth. 

The annual interest bill on the state’s debt is $2 billion.

Rachel Siewert from the Western Australian Council of Social Service acknowledged some positive aspects of the budget.

“Having cheaper transport fares will help people, having access to breakfast programs will help people, having access to a rent relief scheme will help people,” she said.

“Our point is, we need that and more.”

Saffioti said the budget was “implementing a plan that will shape our state for decades to come”.