The State Government’s North-West Aboriginal Housing Fund (NWAHF) is aiming to deliver a range of affordable housing, first time employment opportunities, education and employment-related accommodation in the Kimberley and Pilbara.
The NWAHF is designed to create pathways towards social and economic independence and wellbeing for Aboriginal people in Western Australia’s northern regions.
An expression of interest call in March this year resulted in 50 submissions that were assessed by an inter‑agency panel that included specific regional and Aboriginal advisers.
The NWAHF is now working with successful applicants to develop the following submissions:
- Leedal Pty Ltd, Indigenous Business Australia and Marra Worra Worra Aboriginal Corporation, to develop affordable dwellings in Fitzroy Crossing;
- Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation and Yurra Group, to develop apprentice and employee transition accommodation in Roebourne;
- Gumala Foundation, with a proposal for transitional housing, a child care facility, and age appropriate accommodation in Tom Price;
- Kuruma Marthundunera Aboriginal Corporation, for wrap around services to support people into private housing in a range of Pilbara locations; and
- Royal Life Saving WA, for a Pilbara youth engagement and employment strategy.
Due to the high number of successful submissions, work will continue later with:
- Yura Yungi Medical Service Aboriginal Corporation, with a proposal for Aboriginal health worker accommodation in Halls Creek; and
- Wunan Foundation and Ngnowar Aerwah Aboriginal Corporation, with a proposal for rent to buy dwellings that will be renovated by local Aboriginal people.
The NWAHF is also working with three applicants to develop a youth‑focused project with accommodation and support services in Broome.
As stated by Housing Minister Peter Tinley:
“There was an impressive response to the NWAHF’s expression of interest call earlier this year and it was encouraging to see the number and quality of the submissions.
“This is a terrific opportunity for potential partners to work with the State Government to transform innovative ideas into concrete projects that will benefit Aboriginal people living in WA’s north.
“The NWAHF demonstrates how the innovative use of housing can build opportunity, capacity, prosperity and wellbeing.
“The State Government is keen to partner with Aboriginal people to increase housing options in a way that supports their aspirations, responds to local circumstances and facilitates educational, training and employment outcomes.”
