Opposition welcomes potash rebate extension

Shadow Mines and Petroleum Minister Shane Love has welcomed the State Government’s recent extension to the 50 per cent royalty rebate for WA potash projects.

Mr Love said Western Australia’s evolving potash industry has an immense upside for local jobs and for the agriculture sector.

“The extension of the potash rebate is good news for the growing industry which has been pleading for a more appropriate royalty regime than has been set by the McGowan Labor Government,” he said.

“Earlier this year, I used Parliament to ask the Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Bill Johnston, if the Government would extend the scheme to all prospective projects but he said no.

“To see this stunning backflip by the Minister on this extension of the royalty rebate scheme is welcomed but well overdue.”

Mr Love said it was critical for the McGowan Labor Government to keep supporting emerging industries to transition from the drawing board into production.

“The development of a resilient domestic potash industry will help diversify Western Australia’s economy and make our State more attractive to international trade partners,” Mr Love said.

“Projects here in WA will boost domestic supply of potash fertiliser for local plant growth, as well as global supplies, so any scheme to help develop local production is welcome.”