Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has praised Western Australia’s resources sector as the “powerhouse” of the national economy during a visit to Perth, while also defending his government’s economic credentials ahead of this week’s high-stakes Economic Reform Roundtable in Canberra.
Speaking at the Resources Technology Showcase on Sunday alongside Resources Minister Madeleine King and Assistant Minister Patrick Gorman, Albanese said WA was “front and centre” of both Australia’s past prosperity and its future transition.
“The resources sector powered Australia in the 20th century,” he said.
“As we transition, it’s continuing to power Australia in the 21st. WA isn’t just the engine room of the state economy — it’s the engine room of the nation.”
Albanese emphasised that the showcase — which attracted families, school groups and young people — highlighted how the industry is changing through new technologies and artificial intelligence. But he stressed that the real focus remained on people.
“At the heart of all this transformation is our workforce,” he said.
“Young West Australians will come here, get hands-on experience, and start to imagine the contribution they will make to this vital sector.”
The Prime Minister also pointed to his government’s introduction of Production Tax Credits, saying they would “reward innovation and investment” in critical minerals and rare earths — industries crucial for the global shift to clean energy.
King said the showcase helped demystify an industry often misunderstood.
“This sector is so much more complex than people think,” she said.
“It’s about science, logistics, efficiency and safety at the highest level in the world. From geoscientists to chefs, every career imaginable exists in resources — and this exhibition lets families and kids see that first-hand.”
Asked about the upcoming economic roundtable, Albanese rejected suggestions it would be a “Canberra talkfest,” insisting it would shape real decisions.
“Australians want a government that leads, but they also want a government that listens,” he said.
“People will bring ideas — some can be acted on immediately, others will feed into the budget or longer-term policy. That’s how we build a stronger economy.”
He noted the improved economic outlook under Labor: “When we came in, inflation was rising, interest rates were climbing, and real wages were going backwards. Now inflation is falling, interest rates have come down three times this year, unemployment is low, and real wages are rising.”
Pressed on whether supporting oil and gas was compatible with Labor’s net zero pledge, Albanese said transition was key. “Net zero is the goal — and that means working with industry so we get jobs and growth here in WA while contributing to our national economy.”
On international affairs, he welcomed former US President Donald Trump’s call for peace after his meeting with Vladimir Putin, but stressed:
“Ukraine’s sovereignty must be protected. The illegal and immoral invasion by Russia cannot be rewarded.”
Albanese also brushed off suggestions he was in Perth purely at the invitation of media magnate Kerry Stokes.
“I’m here because this showcase is important enough in itself — meeting with industry leaders, engaging directly with the sector that drives so much of our economy.”
On a lighter note, the Prime Minister celebrated the Wallabies’ historic victory in Johannesburg. “It’s a cracker,” he said.
“To trail heavily and then score the last 38 points — that’s an amazing effort.”
But his final word returned to health policy after questions over pressure on WA hospitals. Albanese defended record federal investment.
“We’ve put an extra $1.7 billion into hospitals this year, tripled the bulk-billing incentive, and opened urgent care clinics to take pressure off emergency departments. That’s real reform delivering for people.”
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