Premier Roger Cook's Perth Move Sparks Debate Amid Political Fatigue
If Premier Roger Cook intends to deliver controversial news to the public, especially on the one-year anniversary of his re-election, the reasoning behind that decision must be articulated clearly and convincingly. Recent developments suggest the rumors were accurate: he was genuinely exhausted.
This is not a reference to David Littleproud, who played a key role in undermining Sussan Ley's leadership before declaring himself too "buggered" to continue as Federal Nationals leader. Instead, it pertains to Roger Cook. Late last year, several well-informed senior Labor sources confided that Cook was worn out, though they avoided using the term "buggered."
One source expressed deep concern for Cook, who had endured a demanding 2025—navigating a State election, assisting Albo during the Federal election, managing a State budget, and addressing significant crises in health and housing.
Cook's Admission and Public Response
In an end-of-year interview with The West Australian, Cook admitted he was heading south for a few weeks to "recharge," stating, "I need a break." He also revealed that he listens to music by Tokyo-based producer and DJ Shingo Nakamura at home to unwind, a detail that raised eyebrows.
Given this context, is it surprising that the Premier, citing proximity to work as the rationale, has decided to relocate with his wife Carly from their family home in Wellard, built 17 years ago, to an apartment in West Perth? Not really. Initially, his move might have seemed like a precursor to exiting politics before the 2029 election, but it could actually be a strategic step to prolong his 18-year political career.
However, residents of Wellard and the Kwinana electorate have valid reasons to feel slighted. When Cook addressed the press in Kwinana on election day last year, there was no mention of plans to move to Perth a year later. Voters who supported him overwhelmingly, with Cook enjoying a 25 percent margin, likely expected him to remain in Wellard throughout his premiership. Even Labor insiders privately acknowledged this week that the optics of Cook's April move to Perth are less than ideal.
Historical Context and Financial Considerations
In reality, Cook began contemplating a city move several years ago when he and his wife purchased an apartment in North Fremantle. Speculation suggests he might have planned to retire from politics before last year's election and settle into this new residence. However, fate intervened when Mark McGowan departed politics in 2023 for corporate opportunities, paving the way for Cook to assume the premiership and win the 2025 election as an elected premier.
McGowan, now residing in Fremantle, had also considered leaving his Rockingham electorate before retiring three years ago. He was exploring housing options in Perth but was reportedly persuaded by supporters to stay in Rockingham until after his political exit. Interestingly, a Labor source this week lamented that McGowan was dissuaded from moving earlier, suggesting an earlier relocation might have extended his political tenure.
Like McGowan, Cook is transported in a taxpayer-funded vehicle. Nevertheless, the daily commute of several hours and late-night returns to Wellard would undoubtedly take a toll. So, why not simply purchase a Perth apartment for overnight stays while maintaining the Wellard home? Cook explains that he is renting out the Wellard property, claiming he cannot afford to maintain two houses, in addition to the North Fremantle apartment and a property in Waroona.
Public Perception and Communication Challenges
This financial explanation is what landed Cook in hot water this week. His justification to the public for the Perth move was perceived as lackluster. When announcing contentious decisions, particularly on such a significant anniversary, the rationale must be transparent and credible to maintain public trust.
