Communities in the North-West will benefit from State Government funding of $35million to provide affordable housing for non-government organisation (NGOs) employees delivering critical services.
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the Royalties for Regions funding would deliver 58 houses in priority Pilbara and Kimberley locations, including Karratha, Newman, South Hedland, Kununurra, Derby, Roebourne, Halls Creek and Broome.
“Affordability is a key issue in the North-West of the State, with those outside the resources industry finding it difficult to afford housing,” Mr Grylls said.
“Suitable housing is critical to ensure that community services such as education, health, drug and alcohol counselling, Aboriginal community health care and legal services can continue to operate.
“These 58 houses will provide employees of NGOs delivering these critical State Government-funded services in the North-West with much-needed affordable rental options.”
Housing Minister Troy Buswell said the locations were chosen to ensure delivery of NGO services was not compromised as a result of a lack of affordable housing.
“These new homes will be leased to NGOs at a discounted rate to support the social wellbeing and sustainability of regional communities by ensuring that NGOs can continue to provide their important services,” Mr Buswell said.
“This is one of several initiatives the Department of Housing is undertaking to increase the supply of affordable housing in the State, in line with the State Affordable Housing Strategy launched earlier this year.”
The Department of Housing has been working in partnership with the Western Australian Council of Social Service (WACOSS) to identify the housing needs of NGO employees.
Applications for the NGO housing will open this week and be assessed by an independent panel chaired by the Department of Housing with panel members from the Pilbara and Kimberley Development Commissions and an independent academic nominated by WACOSS.
Applications close on September 9, 2011.
Regional Development Minister’s office - 9213 7000
Housing Minister’s office - 9213 6900