Nicola Brischetto is the new executive director at the Property Council of WA.
Perth is facing significant challenges, including a rising number of empty shops and increasing homelessness, prompting the Property Council of Australia to call for decisive action. The organization advocates for the establishment of a Minister for the Capital City to address the issues affecting the Central Business District (CBD) and to champion its revitalization.
In an upcoming report, the Property Council outlines how the proposed ministerial role would become a central point of contact for community members, businesses, investors, and other stakeholders. This position would function similarly to the ministerial portfolios that the Cook Government introduced for each region in Western Australia earlier this year. The Property Council WA executive director, Nicola Brischetto, emphasized the importance of a vibrant city for both the economy and community pride.
“Perth isn’t just any city. It’s our capital city,” Brischetto stated. “Its success is critical to attracting investment and ensuring the long-term prosperity of Western Australia.” She believes that a dedicated ministerial portfolio would keep the focus on the CBD’s growth and sustainability, providing a framework for accountability within the State Government.
The call for action comes amid ongoing issues with anti-social behavior and vacant storefronts in Perth. A city worker, who wished to remain anonymous, noted the visibility of homeless individuals and those affected by drugs throughout the day. “You would be hard pressed to go five minutes in the city without finding someone homeless or drug-affected in some way,” the worker remarked. Despite these challenges, the worker acknowledged that Perth has the potential to be a lively city, particularly during weekends when the streets are bustling with activity.
However, the significant number of vacant shops undermines this vibrancy. As reported by CBRE, Perth’s current vacancy rate stands at 21.7 percent, the highest among all Australian capital cities, following a peak of 26.5 percent in the first half of 2022.
The relationship between the City of Perth and the State Government has been strained in recent years. Although Brischetto did not comment on the existing dynamics, she asserted that the proposed ministerial role could enhance collaboration between the two governing bodies. Current Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds, who previously led the Perth Liberal Party branch, has also expressed a commitment to mending the relationship with the State Government.
Reynolds acknowledged the Cook Government’s decision to prioritize hospitals over the $1.6 billion Perth Convention Centre project, a move that has raised concerns about the city’s visibility and influence in government decisions. He stated that fostering a better relationship with the State is essential for Perth’s future.
The Property Council’s upcoming report will recommend several initiatives to improve Perth’s CBD, including:
– Establishing a Central Perth Advisory Committee led by the CBD Minister, involving the City of Perth, relevant state authorities, and key industry stakeholders.
– Enhancing lighting in central Perth to promote safety and natural surveillance around the clock.
– Facilitating partnerships between property owners, local businesses, and WA Police to improve security and response to anti-social behavior through enhanced CCTV coverage.
– Upgrading footpaths on St Georges Terrace west of William Street to match the quality of those on the eastern side.
– Testing the removal of buses from William Street, redirecting routes to terminate at the Elizabeth Quay Busport or Perth Busport.
– Modifying traffic signals at key intersections to prioritize pedestrian movement.
– Installing weather protection shelters along William Street, particularly at the intersections with Hay and Murray Street Mall.
The Property Council’s push for a dedicated Minister for the Capital City represents a proactive approach to addressing the challenges facing Perth. It aims to foster a more vibrant urban environment, enhance community engagement, and ultimately contribute to the city’s long-term prosperity.
