Tax relief urged

THE State Opposition has called for immediate tax refunds for all those who have bought a home since the May State Budget.

The Liberals’ Dan Sullivan said the Government’s decision to defer stamp duty relief until July 1 was causing instability in the metropolitan and regional housing markets, but suggested the problem could be easily fixed.

“If the treasurer took the time to drive around the suburbs or speak with real estate practitioners he might understand the impact of his decision to delay tax relief,” he said.

“Many home buyers are delaying settlement until after July 1 and this is having an impact on the industry.

“The Government can fix this and should offer the rebate as a matter of priority.”

Mr Sullivan said the handling of an otherwise sound relief package was affecting the lives of many Western Australian families, real estate agents, settlement agents and builders.