WA government claims it doesn’t owe Crown Perth for Burswood land, citing a 2020 repurchase clause.

The Western Australian government says it doesn’t have to pay Crown Perth for Burswood Racetrack land, citing a 2020 agreement that allowed potential land repurchase, though Crown sought to remove the clause. Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia denies involvement in negotiations, saying Minister Safiotti leads the matter. Critics, including the Save Burswood Park Alliance and Mayor Karen Vernon, raise concerns over conflicts of interest, especially as the government implements Crown Commission recommendations while negotiating land use. Former Labor minister Bill Johnston was recently appointed board president by Papalia, who also oversees the Burswood Park board. Questions persist about the racetrack’s proximity to Crown Towers’ pool, but officials say the annual event will have minimal impact.