WEST Australian Senator Linda Reynolds has called for the Council of Australian Government (COAG) Leaders Retreat to be held in the Pilbara.

Following COAG’s latest meeting last week Prime Minister Tony Abbott will host Premiers and Chief Ministers from across Australia at a “Leaders Retreat” in July. This will provide an opportunity for further discussions on GST reform.

Earlier today Senator Reynolds called on West Australians to back a social media campaign to #premierstothepilbara.

“I believe all state and territory leaders must see what it really takes to generate the nation’s wealth,” Senator Reynolds said.

“I don’t believe anyone can truly comprehend the sustained level of investment and innovation Western Australia has undertaken over the past few decades without visiting our state’s North West.

“This is why Prime Minister Abbotts’ planned leaders retreat should take place in the Pilbara.”

Senator Reynolds said WA had been let down by a GST distribution model that rewards economic mediocrity and penalises state’s that perform well.

“Next financial year WA’s share of GST will fall to below 30 cents,” she said.

“WA is the only state to see its GST share fall below 81 cents this isn’t fair.

“It is for this reason the WA Liberal team is bargaining for a better deal for Western Australians.”

–ENDS– 

Media contact: Jessica Hayes 0427333147