WEST Australian Senator Linda Reynolds does not believe a jaunt to an expensive luxury resort on Kangaroo Island by COAG leaders is the best use of taxpayer funds.

Following a COAG meeting last week, Prime Minister Abbott revealed Premiers and Chief Ministers from across Australia would convene for a Leaders Retreat in July, with GST set to be the focus of discussions.

South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill has extended a formal invitation to the Federal Government to host the meeting at a luxury resort on Kangaroo Island.

Responding to Premier Weatherill’s comments, Senator Reynolds reiterated her calls for the meeting to be held in the West Australian Pilbara.

“This Leaders’ Retreat is not a holiday and it’s time for state and territory leaders to don the hard hat, high vis and steel capped boots,” Senator Reynolds said.

“A visit to the Pilbara would be an enlightening experience for COAG leaders who are yet to visit the region and who oppose WA’s position on GST distribution.”

Senator Reynolds said any discussions held at a luxury resort were likely to result in the same stalemate as in Canberra last week.

“The WA resources industry provides employment for thousands of FIFO workers from right across Australia,” she said.

“I would think COAG leaders would embrace the opportunity to better understand the region and the impact it has on the Australian economy.”

Senator Reynolds said if leaders were to visit the region they would see where WA had reinvested its GST share and royalties to ensure the nation’s continued economic growth and prosperity.

–ENDS– 

Media Contact: Jessica Hayes 0427333147