Haase Welcomes Cheaper Weather Warning Service

West Australians will have inexpensive and ready access to Bureau of Meteorology severe weather telephone warning services under changes announced by the Federal Government.

Federal Member for Kalgoorlie, Barry Haase, has welcomed the move by Environment Minister Robert Hill which will see calls to the service charged at the cost of a local call.

Mr Haase says it's a commonsense move which will benefit many West Australians, particularly in regional areas along the state's vast coastline.

"Since April, people using the service have been paying 75 cents a minute. This charge was an unintended consequence of the widespread changes taking place in the telecommunications industry.

"I have listened to the concerns of regional communities in WA about this unintended charge. While most people obtain severe weather warnings through the media, the telephone service is a vital adjunct in times of threat.

"This move back to a local call cost service shows the Government recognises the importance of providing cost-efficient severe weather warning services for all Australians, where life and property may be endangered."

The new telephone numbers will have a 1300 prefix. The first of the new numbers, for warnings of tropical cyclones, will come into effect on Monday 7 December on 1300 659 210. Other severe weather warning services will be transferred progressively to the 1300 numbers.

Mr Haase says the new series of numbers will be a critical component of disaster preparedness in northern Australian communities.

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For further information contact: Barry Haase, (02) 6277 4154 or click HERE