Nicola Brischetto is the new executive director at the Property Council of WA.
UPDATE: Perth is grappling with an alarming rise in homelessness and vacant shops, prompting urgent calls for the establishment of a CBD Minister to address the city’s deteriorating conditions. The Property Council of Australia is set to release a report advocating for this critical position, which aims to revitalize the Central Business District (CBD) and enhance community engagement.
The proposed CBD Minister would serve as a dedicated advocate within the Cabinet, focusing on revitalization efforts and acting as a liaison for businesses, stakeholders, and the public. Nicola Brischetto, Executive Director of the Property Council WA, emphasized the importance of revitalizing Perth, noting that “its success is critical to attracting investment and ensuring the long-term prosperity of Western Australia.”
This push for action comes as Perth struggles with a staggering 21.7 percent vacancy rate, the highest among Australia’s capital cities, according to CBRE data. The city is still reeling from its peak vacancy rate of 26.5 percent in early 2022. As empty storefronts litter the streets, the human impact is palpable, with a significant number of homeless individuals visible throughout the city, particularly during early morning hours.
A city worker, who requested anonymity, shared their concerns about the pervasive anti-social behavior linked to homelessness and drug use. “You would be hard pressed to go five minutes in the city without finding someone homeless or drug-affected,” they stated. Despite these challenges, the worker noted that the potential for a vibrant city remains, especially on bustling Friday evenings when streets and bars are filled with patrons.
The situation has ignited discussions about the relationship between the City of Perth and the State Government. Premier Roger Cook has faced criticism for previously avoiding mandatory meetings with Bruce Reynolds, the current Lord Mayor. Reynolds, who aims to mend the fractured relationship with the State, expressed understanding for the government’s decision to prioritize hospitals over the $1.6 billion Perth Convention Centre project, but raised concerns about the city being sidelined.
The upcoming report will also propose several key initiatives, including:
– Establishing a Central Perth Advisory Committee led by the CBD Minister, comprising representatives from the City of Perth, State Government, and key industry stakeholders.
– Enhancing lighting in central Perth to promote natural surveillance around the clock.
– Strengthening partnerships between property owners, local businesses, and WA Police for improved responses to anti-social behaviour.
– Upgrading footpaths on St Georges Terrace and William Street to enhance pedestrian access.
– Testing the removal of buses from William Street to reduce congestion and enhance pedestrian movement.
– Adjusting traffic signals at major intersections to prioritize pedestrians.
– Installing rain and sun shelters along William Street to improve public comfort.
As these discussions unfold, the call for immediate action resonates louder than ever. The fate of Perth’s CBD hangs in the balance, and stakeholders urge the government to prioritize this pressing issue. Residents and businesses alike are watching closely as the city seeks to reclaim its vibrancy and enhance civic pride.
Next Steps: Watch for the Property Council’s report to be released soon, as it promises to outline detailed strategies for revitalizing Perth’s CBD and combating the homelessness crisis. The urgency for action is clear—Perth’s future depends on it.
