WA investment property owners may be hit with new levy

Investment property owners in Western Australia may need to pay a $270 tax under a plan by the McGowan government.

It has been reported the proposed levy will be linked to water rates and applied to investment properties with a gross rental value of $24,000 or more.

PerthNow reported a spokesman for Treasurer Ben Wyatt saying all options are being considered as part of the Budget repair process and any announcements regarding household fees and charges will be before July 1.

He told Parliament yesterday the government had made a range of savings measures.

“I must admit I’m not enjoying making them, but the reality is everyone has to contribute and everybody will be looked to to contribute,” he said.

“For example, tariffs, fees and charges need to be announced prior to their implementation on July .

“I will be looking to all organisations and individuals in the community to help ... In terms of specific impacts on specific taxpayers, you’ll have to wait for the Budget.”

Premier Mark McGowan said tough decisions had to be made.