The City of Busselton has welcomed the increasingly broad political support for a Federal Government contribution to the rebuilding of the Busselton Jetty.

Last week the independent candidate for the Federal seat of Forrest, Noel Brunning, met Shire representatives and confirmed he will push for a Commonwealth contribution if elected.

Mr Brunning called on both the major parties to give some money to WA for projects like the jetty rebuilding. He has confirmed he will write to both Prime Minister John Howard and Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd asking them to commit $6 million towards the full $18 million required for rebuilding.

Mr Brunning's support comes just days after the Labor candidate for Forrest, Peter Macfarlane threw his full support behind the project.

Mr Macfarlane has pledged to work hard to ensure a future for what he has described as an important icon for the South-west and an outstanding tourist attraction. He said the jetty project will help create a great future for the town of Busselton, its business and community.

Previously stakeholders and shire representative have met with and received strong support for the project from the Liberal Party candidate, Nola Marino.

Shire President, Bev Clarke said that "it is encouraging to see the strong support from the local political community for an appropriate Federal Government commitment to saving the jetty."

Council has resolved to seek a 1/3 contribution for the full rebuild from both the State and Federal Governments. With the State Government having now committed their $6M share the Federal Government is the last tier of government to commit to this important project.

"Community leaders in the South-west are acknowledging that this is an important project for Busselton and the region and that a full rebuild of the Jetty is unlikely to happen without some form of Federal Government support," Cr Clarke said.

"With both the independent and Labor candidates for the Federal seat of Forrest now supporting this project, we are hopeful that the Coalition will eventually see its way to making some financial commitment to helping save the jetty."

"The jetty symbolises both the history of Busselton and the South-West as well as our future prospects. It is appropriate that saving this important structure attracts support from all sides of politics."

The Busselton Jetty is the 4th highest visited tourist attraction in the State and when rebuilt is estimated to contribute $10 million to the local economy annually.

Cr Clarke said the City of Busselton would continue to discuss the merits of the project with candidates and this was important given the current sitting member was retiring.  

ENDS.

Media enquiries can be directed to the Public Relations Officer, Julie Rawlings on 97810446 or julie.rawlings@busselton.wa.gov.au