Buswell's return to WA parliament delayed

Former West Australian treasurer Troy Buswell is not likely to return to parliament until May, Premier Colin Barnett says.

Mr Buswell was charged last week with 11 traffic offences after allegedly crashing into parked cars on two Subiaco streets, causing damage to four vehicles and a telephone pole on February 23.

The 48-year-old quit as treasurer and transport minister, but remained MP for Vasse, after it emerged he crashed his car after a drinking session at a wedding.

Mr Barnett last week blamed a police investigation and ongoing political debate about a cover-up for not being in direct contact with Mr Buswell since his mental health deteriorated and he quit his portfolios.

But on Sunday, Mr Barnett said he had spoken with his friend - who was supposed to return to parliament this week - and said Mr Buswell sounded better and was keen to return to work.

"I don't think Troy will come back at the end of this week - it's more likely to be May," Mr Barnett told reporters.

"I spoke to him yesterday. His health is improving, he's not doing nothing.

"He's going into his electorate office and doing local electorate work (for) two or three hours a day."

Mr Barnett said the fallen treasurer would progressively take up his duties.

Mr Buswell has been charged with three counts of failing to stop at a traffic accident, four counts of failing to report a traffic accident and four counts of careless driving.

The penalties for all charges are fines and licence disqualification.

Mr Buswell will face court on April 29.