Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls announced today that the Royalties for Regions program would contribute $25million per year towards the State Government’s efficiency savings until 2012-13.

Mr Grylls said $25million in 2009-10 represented almost four per cent of the Royalties for Regions in that year and would assist the State in protecting its triple ‘A’ rating.

“With the current economic crisis we faced some tough financial decisions and accept the Royalties for Regions program can play an important role in helping secure the economic future of our State,” he said.

“Royalties for Regions is not exempt from helping the State manage the economic demands associated with these changing financial circumstances and delivering savings.”

The Minister said the $25million contribution would commence in the 2009-10 financial year as outlined in the Budget Papers.

“The planned expenditure for regional development, infrastructure and services, through the Royalties for Regions program, will provide a substantial stimulus for the future of regional Western Australia,” Mr Grylls said.

“This will result in more jobs and opportunities for business and industry in these regional communities during these tough times.”

WA Budget statements are available at http://www.ourstatebudget.wa.gov.au/