Communities across Western Australia's Kimberley and Pilbara regions are facing a mix of infrastructure, cost-of-living and community issues, according to the latest regional news briefing released by ABC News.
One of the major updates concerns the long-awaited Family and Domestic Violence Court in Broome. The Western Australian Government has confirmed the project is still progressing despite missing its original opening target. The specialised court, announced in 2021 with funding of $5.5 million, was expected to open in 2023 but remains under development. The government says work is continuing to ensure the facility is culturally appropriate, safe and functional, with an additional full-time magistrate expected to be based in Broome next year.
Motorists across regional WA have received some welcome relief, with the average price of diesel falling below $2 per litre for the first time since global fuel prices surged earlier this year. According to Fuel Watch, regional diesel averaged $1.91 per litre during the past week after 11 consecutive weeks of price declines. However, the reduction comes as the Federal Government's temporary fuel excise discount begins to be scaled back.
In Halls Creek, football matches have resumed after a recent incident involving antisocial behaviour led to temporary disruption. League officials say those responsible for vandalising a vehicle have been identified, and the South East Kimberley Football League has stressed that criminal behaviour will not be tolerated at community sporting events.
Meanwhile, the Shire of Carnarvon has proposed an 8.5 per cent increase in council rates for the coming financial year. The proposal is now open for public consultation before councillors make a final decision later this month. If approved, the increase is expected to generate approximately $7.9 million in rates revenue to help fund local services and infrastructure.
The City of Karratha is also investigating the discovery of a deceased dog in the suburb of Bulgarra. Local authorities are appealing for information from the public as rangers continue inquiries into the incident.
There was also positive news for Carnarvon, which secured $50,000 through the Streets Alive program. The funding will support improvements along Robinson Street, with the aim of encouraging more visitors, supporting local businesses and revitalising the town centre.
Finally, the Pilbara town of Roebourne is marking the annual Old People's Birthday, a long-running community event held on 1 July. The celebration honours First Nations elders whose exact birth dates were never formally recorded, creating a shared birthday that has been observed in the community for more than three decades.
