Kwinana Rates: Why Are We Paying More for Less?
As we navigate a challenging economy, Kwinana families are keeping a closer eye on their household budgets than ever before. Unfortunately, a look at our local Council’s financial track record over the last five years suggests that the City of Kwinana is not showing the same level of restraint.
The Border Divide: A Growing Gap
When we compare ourselves to our neighbors, the numbers tell a concerning story. Over the last five years, Kwinana residents have shouldered nearly 8% more in cumulative rate increases than those living in Rockingham and Cockburn.
| Financial Year | City of Kwinana | City of Rockingham | City of Cockburn |
| 2025/26 | 4.5% 🚩 | 3.5% | 3.5% |
| 2024/25 | 5.0% | 3.9% | 4.4% |
| 2023/24 | 4.75% | 3.5% | 3.9% |
| 2022/23 | 4.0% | 3.0% | 2.5% |
| 2021/22 | 3.5% | 0.0%* | 0.0%* |
| 5-Year Total | ~21.75% | ~13.9% | ~14.3% |
| *Note: Neighboring councils implemented rate freezes during the pandemic to support families. |
Investment vs. Administration
Higher rates are often justified by “major projects.” However, while our neighbors have seen tangible results, Kwinana residents are still waiting.
- Rockingham has successfully delivered significant coastal erosion mitigation and foreshore upgrades.
- Cockburn continues to expand major regional recreation facilities and road safety upgrades.
In Kwinana, our rate dollars seem to be frequently absorbed by consultation fees, administration, and professional reports rather than “shovels in the ground.”
The “Loop Trail” Legend
The Kwinana Walking Trail is a prime example of this “cycle of consultation.” Promised as a bitumen walk-and-bike way for residents to enjoy, the project has been discussed for over a decade. Yet, after years of paying for trail consultants, indigenous advisory fees, and “feasibility studies,” the majority of the trail remains a dirt track.
It appears the money is often spent before the first brick is laid. Residents are left with expensive PDF reports while the promised amenities remain on the drawing board.
Our Call for Change
ALWMGroup believes Kwinana deserves a Council that prioritizes delivery over discussion.
We are advocating for a return to common-sense spending, where your rates are invested in the community you see outside your front door—not in endless administration.