EXCLUSIVE: John Butler Relieved ‘War With Tyrant’ Over As WA Labor Assumes Power

Labor’s landslide victory in the WA election over the weekend is cause for celebration for those in the music industry, with new Premier Mark McGowan promising to focus on the music industry in the lead up to the election.

Only a few days after assuming leadership, McGowan’s already made good on one of his pre-election promises, calling off the Roe Highway extension that many WA artists have been actively protesting in recent months.

As someone who spent time at the frontline of the Roe 8 protests, revered WA artist and political force John Butler is glad to see Colin Barnett and the Liberals step back.

“Some had lost faith that Barnett really had the people's best interest in mind, some just thought it was time for a change,” Butler told The Music.

“Then there were citizens like myself who've been sick of him running roughshod over communities and country since the day he took office.

“For many of us it's felt like we've been at war with a tyrant for the last eight-and-a-half years. I'm very pleased his chapter is over.”

Labor’s live music plan will facilitate micro-festivals and increase funding for music and venues in an effort to create more hospitality, tourism and arts jobs.

“I wish Mr. McGowan all the best for the time he has been given to serve the West Australian people,” Butler said.

“The news that he has stopped Roe 8 in its tracks is encouraging, let's hope the premier-elect makes good on his promises otherwise we'll be digging in all over again.”