Anglicare WA is preparing for the release of the WA State Budget on Thursday 7 May 2026.
Released every financial year, the WA State Budget sets out how the WA Government will spend its money over the next financial year (from July to June). It also establishes projections for future years, called ‘forward estimates’, and provides a picture of the health of WA’s economy and finances.
Every year, Anglicare WA advocates for the WA State Budget to address concerns for everyday Western Australians and support those doing it tough. Before its release, we provide submissions on what should be included (called Pre-Budget Submissions) and meet with Members of Parliament and Ministers to discuss shared concerns. On Budget Day we analyse the budget to see what is good and what needs more attention.
This is all part of our systems advocacy to give everyone the opportunity to thrive.
Why does the WA State Budget matter?
While the WA Government has recorded large surpluses year-on-year, poverty in WA has continued to rise. As demonstrated by our Rental Affordability Snapshot, issues such as the housing crisis have spiraled out of control.
Meanwhile, demand for emergency assistance continues to rise. Since the release of the State Budget in June 2025, our Emergency Relief and Food Access Service (ERFAS) has experienced a 57 per cent increase in demand.
Every month this year so far, more than 5,500 people have sought support through ERFAS, highlighting the sustained and growing financial pressure facing individuals and families across the community.
Now, rising fuel prices are further compounding financial stress. More Western Australians are doing it tough than ever before – even those in full time employment.
What does Anglicare WA want to see in the WA State Budget?
It is critical that the WA Government uses this budget and our unprecedented wealth as a state to support those in need.
We’re calling for targeted cost-of-living relief, investment in our social infrastructure, and frontline services that can hold people where they are and give them the support they need right now.
The recent reporting from The Sunday Times that the WA Government will announce an end to No Grounds Evictions at the WA State Budget is a promising sign of real action. This single change alone would provide protections for the more than 700,000 renters in WA, and support people to remain in their homes without the threat of eviction hanging over their heads.
Keep an eye out for Anglicare WA’s analysis of the WA State Budget on 7 May.
Read our previous advocacy on the WA State Budget Learn more about our advocacy priorities
