The WA Government has negotiated a successful outcome for Western Australian taxpayers in the dispute with BHP over royalty deductions.
Following an audit by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS), the State Government has been engaged in negotiations with BHP in good faith, to resolve the dispute in the best interests of the State of Western Australia.
The $250 million settlement with BHP and its joint venture partners is the end of this dispute, and prevents taxpayers being exposed to lengthy and expensive legal proceedings.
The WA Government will allocate $230 million towards the construction of a new women’s and maternity hospital at the QEII site, replacing King Edward Memorial Hospital. This follows the $3.3 million included in the Budget to begin planning for the new hospital.
$15 million will go towards much-needed upgrades and repairs at Hedland Senior High School, including upgrades to Hardie House, classrooms and specialist rooms, and covered recreational areas.
A further $5 million will be directed to Newman Hospital for additional upgrades, including extra inpatient beds and an expanded procedure room. This is on top of the $48.7 million already allocated for the new Newman Hospital.
Source: WA Government