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The Rottnest Island Authority has been aware of its crumbling jetties for several years, with its boating management strategy.
The long-term strategy released in 2014 recommended "substantial investment" to ensure "the ongoing integrity" of several jetties, including the Army Jetty on Thomson Bay.
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According to the strategy, replacing the Army Jetty would cost $ 3 million and would require "a special budget allocation from the State Government".
Yesterday, RIA chairman John Langoulant said, "We have been here for a long time.
He said the authority's board had been unsafe for pedestrians.
Mr Langoulant said this would be the cause of yesterday's "unfortunate accident".
The Opposition said it should be extended to a full safety audit of the public infrastructure on the island.
It is understood the RIA board recently agreed to spend $ 500,000 on scoping works for upgrading the jetty and building a barge landing, allowing the freight barge to shift its operations to the Main Jetty.
Mr Langoulant confirmed that the board's long-term plan was to replace the jetty.
"We have known the facility was aging," he said.
"We have known since 2010 that we are only suitable for pedestrian traffic and people who want to fish."
The previous Liberal government's response to the 2014 strategy was to begin planning for a new marina near the Army Jetty. The marina plan involved the restoration of the jetty and the construction of accommodation at the southern end of Thomson Bay.
Expressions of interest for the construction of the marina were sought in August 2015 and were considered a preferred proponent was recommended.
Since the election of the McGowan Government last year, the marina plan has been abandoned.
"This Government has spent millions of dollars promoting Rottnest Island …", said shadow tourism minister Libby Mettam said.
"I call on Tourism Minister Paul Papalia to conduct an immediate audit of the public infrastructure on the Rottnest and outline of the Army Jetty and the Main Jetty."
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