Political Clash Over Burswood Motorsport Masterplan Heats Up in Parliament

Premier Roger Cook repeatedly accused the opposition of hating motorsports during a heated Question Time exchange over the $217.5 million Burswood masterplan.

Tensions Erupt During Question Time

Liberal opposition leader Basil Zempilas pressed Premier Roger Cook on the financial details of the ambitious Burswood masterplan, specifically asking whether the state budget would include a full costing of the racetrack and the cost of acquiring Crown Casino land.

Cook declined to answer directly, deferring to the budget release. Zempilas then pressed further, asking if the stated cost would avoid a blowout. Cook again deferred before pivoting to discuss the development's benefits, as interjections rang through the chamber.

History Made: Ejection in Parliament

Zempilas was twice called to order during the exchange. In a notable development, Nationals MP Lachlan Hunter was ejected from the chamber—reported as the first such ejection in a decade.

Premier's "Hates Motorsport" Refrain

Cook stated 14 times that the opposition "hates motorsports" and its enthusiasts. He declared:

"I know that the Leader of the Opposition hates motorsports... He hates the fact that ordinary Western Australians will come there in their thousands... I make no apologies for the fact that we have spent literally millions upgrading motorsport facilities right round the state."

The Perth Park Plan

The proposed development includes a 3.4km, 12-turn street circuit designed to host the opening round of the Supercars Championship in 2028. The project is positioned as a multi-purpose precinct, though it has drawn concern over noise and environmental impacts.

Unanswered Questions

Zempilas flagged an undisclosed deal with Crown Casino concerning a 5.8-hectare land portion. Construction on the project has already begun, while questions over full financial disclosure remain unresolved.