Govt cautious about Fremantle move

The state government has continued its investigation into moving one of its departments to Fremantle, but has not committed to the shift.

The government has this week began looking for suitable offices in Fremantle, calling for expressions of interest through property agent ACORPP.

It is looking for office space of up to 20,000 square metres within 600 metres of the Fremantle train station, occupiable by mid-2019.

The state is considering moving a government agency to the port city, with the Department of Housing named today as the likely candidate.

Premier Colin Barnett said that department’s offices in East Perth had become non-functional due to age.

“We would envisage around 800 to 1,000 jobs being relocated to Fremantle, which would be a huge boost for the area,” he said.

However, both Mr Barnett and Finance Minister Bill Marmion emphasised that such a move was dependent on it providing better value for money than current arrangements.

“Changes in the state’s financial position and the softening of the Perth property market have made it even more important that decisions are made on sound economic grounds,” Mr Barnett said.

Mr Marmion said the ultimate decision would come down to the financial appeal of a move.

“We’ve been repeatedly told there’s great value for money in community centres such as Fremantle and if it stacks up for WA taxpayers, it will also be a great boost for Fremantle. Now is the time for proponents to sharpen their pencils,” Mr Marmion said.

The expression of interest will remain open until September 1 this year.