West Australian councils are celebrating continued funding for vital Community Resource Centres.

WA Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan has reinstated $13 million in funding for 105 centres across regional Western Australia.

WA Local Government Association (WALGA) President Cr Lynne Craigie says the decision came after strong representations made by WALGA and councils to retain the funding.

Community Resource Centres support local social and economic activity, with 395 staff and more than 1000 volunteers across the state.

“It is understandable that when faced with the challenge of budget repair the State Government would look at making savings across programs,” Cr Craigie said.

“It was unfortunate that the Community Resource Centres were caught up in this process but fortunate that the Minister was prepared to listen to the community and reverse the decision.

“It takes decisive leadership to terminate a program but even stronger leadership to genuinely consider the arguments from stakeholders and then change your position.”

Cr Craigie said Community Resource Centres are critical in helping deliver the State Government’s focus on traineeships and creating jobs in regional WA.

“The decision by the Minister to consult with the sector in a meaningful way is, I believe, a direct consequence of the State Government’s partnership agreement with the Local Government sector and is a welcome change to addressing critical issues,” Cr Craigie said.