Scaffidi back to work

City of Perth Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi says she is focused on diversifying the city’s economy away from the mining industry as she returns to work after a four-month absence.

Ms Scaffidi last year successfully challenged her 18-month disqualification after the State Administrative Tribunal found she seriously breached the Local Government Act 45 times by not disclosing third party-funded travel and accommodation.

She temporarily stood down in September, but three months later the WA Court of Appeal overturned 26 adverse findings.

The SAT is yet to determine a new penalty for 19 breaches she did not appeal.

Ms Scaffidi today refused to answer questions about the SAT matter, but said she felt no bitterness and was keen to focus on the city's needs.

“I believe the city really needs a strong economic development focus,” she said

“We are seeing the new opportunities starting to appear, it’s not as difficult a time economically as perhaps it was six to eight months ago, but I still think we need to be far more proactive in attracting diversified industry sectors into the city.

“Focusing on looking at other industry sectors that can help us move away from the heavy reliance we have on the mining sector and the oil and gas sector.”

Ms Scaffidi said she would work with the state government despite calls from Premier Mark McGowan for her to quit.

“I’ve worked with both sides of politics and I can continue to do so because in my opinion we need to focus on the needs of the city,” she said

“I am a professional individual and I can certainly put my differences aside and get on with the job at hand.

“I’ve found the opportunity to sit on the sidelines … interesting - I’ve taken the time to speak and meet with many city stakeholders and they’ve been very candid with me in giving me their views on various aspects of the city.”