Published on Wednesday, 22 February 2023 at 9:28:44 AM
The Town of Port Hedland has taken another step in collaborating with the Federal Government to tackle housing issues in the region.
Mayor Peter Carter, industry representatives and members of the Town’s Housing Solutions Steering Committee on Tuesday had positive discussions with the Federal Minister for Housing Julie Collins.
Mayor Carter said the meeting was the opportunity to share real-life insights into the challenges Hedland faced with housing affordability and accessibility.
“It is clear the Federal Government is committed to tackling housing affordability issues over the long-term through the Housing Australia Future Fund and National Housing Supply and Affordability Council,” he said.
The National Housing and Homelessness Plan will also set out the key short, medium and longer-term reforms needed to improve outcomes across the housing spectrum. Community consultation on the plan is scheduled to start in the second quarter of 2023.
“The government should be commended for introducing initiatives that can help deliver new social and affordable housing and we would be hopeful that the Hedland community could benefit from these schemes," Mayor Carter said.
“We are very grateful the Minister was able to meet with us and we are confident the Federal Government is serious in wanting to help us find solutions to our housing challenges.”
Mayor Carter shared with Minister Collins the Town’s $40 million Key Worker Housing project aimed at providing more housing for workers in sectors such as education, health, tourism, retail and childcare.
“The Town has committed $30 million over the next five years to this project and we are hoping to collaborate with both State and Federal governments, as well as industry, to fund the remaining $10 million,” he said.
The Town has identified a block of land in Cottier Drive with a concept plan completed which includes 40-60, two to four-bedroom houses of various design.
“A business case is nearing completion but it was pleasing to be able to brief the Minister on this project and the Town’s proactive approach to tackling housing issues,” Mayor Carter said.
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