An independent study rating the City of Busselton’s performance by community members showed the city to be the fifth best place in WA and the best regional area in the state.
The study was conducted by Catalyse which approached 4000 residents to complete the survey, receiving 495 responses plus an additional 402 who opted in.
The city led WA councils in six areas which included access to the mayor and councillors, economic development, sense of community, lighting and tree management.
As a place to live, the city received a score of 87 out of 100 with Yallingup residents rating the most satisfaction at 91 along with people who had children aged more than 18 years.
As a organisation that governs the local area, the city received a score of 61 with Busselton residents most satisfied at 64 and Dunsborough residents the least satisfied giving the city a score of 53.
People aged between 18 to 34 years were least satisfied with their value for money from council rates giving the city a score of 41.
Yallingup residents were most satisfied with the council’s leadership followed by women, the least satisfied were people living in rural areas.
Dunsborough residents felt least satisfied the community were consulted on local issues giving the city a score of 40, Yallingup residents thought councillors had the least understanding of community needs scoring the city 23.
Youth services, facilities and events received a total score of 55 while services, facilities and events for seniors received a score of 60.
The city received a score of 76 for its festivals, events, arts and cultural activities with rural residents showing the most satisfaction.
Planning and building approvals were given a total rating of 47 out of 100 with Dunsborough residents showing the least satisfaction scoring the city 38.
Parking was the biggest problem for people who were renting a house scoring the city 32 followed by people who lived in Dunsborough and Yallingup.
The city also scored high for its weekly rubbish and fortnightly recycling collection receiving a score of 78 and 74 overall.
Comments received through the study said the airport was a must and game changer for economic stability and growth in the region.
“Keep up the good fight,” one person said.
“Expansion of thinking beyond tourism as the only employment growth opportunity.”