The Cook Labor Government has handed down its 2026-27 State Budget, themed "Delivering for WA". Against a backdrop of global uncertainty and rising fuel prices, it leads with more than $1 billion in cost-of-living relief, a record housing investment, the biggest health funding boost in the state's history, and continued job creation. WA also posted a $3.5 billion operating surplus and remains the only state with a AAA credit rating from both major agencies. Here is what stands out.
Over $1 billion in cost-of-living relief
A wide package of direct payments and fee reductions, including a fuel excise cut (a 32 cents-per-litre saving for three months) and a 3.3% cut to household fees and charges. Depending on circumstances, a family with two school-age children could receive $2,100 or more in combined support, and a regional pensioner $6,000 or more.
Record $4.7 billion housing investment
Total housing investment since 2021 now exceeds $10.8 billion. The budget funds thousands of new residential lots, a third round of stamp duty relief for first home buyers, 500 affordable homes for first home buyers (with Keystart's property limit raised to $860,000), and more than 500 regional worker homes under the new Seven Cities vision.
Record $9.1 billion health boost
The biggest single health funding increase in WA's history, with total hospital spending reaching $12.1 billion in 2026-27. It includes 900 additional hospital beds in the pipeline, the acquisition of Mount Lawley Hospital, a $414 million mental health and drug services boost, and free flu, FluMist and RSV vaccines.
A strong economy and jobs
State Final Demand has been revised up to 3.5%, WA accounts for over 45% of national exports, and more than 380,000 jobs have been created since 2017. The budget also backs energy (a $1.4 billion Clean Energy Fund boost), education (a $310 million disability funding uplift and continued Fee-Free TAFE), water security (the Dampier and next Perth desalination plants), and community safety.
What this means for you
Most of the immediate benefit sits in the cost-of-living measures and housing support, while the longer-term picture — a surplus, low net debt and a AAA rating — points to a stable state economy. If you are a first home buyer, planning a build, or want to make sure you are capturing the rebates and concessions you are entitled to, we are happy to help.
This article is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider its appropriateness to your circumstances and seek personal advice before acting. General advice provided by Navarino Wealth, Authorised Representative No. 377 450 of PFP Financial Services Pty Ltd, AFSL 535484.