State Government puts $1.6 million towards project in Geraldton to house skilled workers

The State Government has supported a Geraldton project to deliver more workers accommodation in the area, investing $1.6 million to help create more houses.

The funding was put towards the Olive Street housing project, which involves turning seven unused lots owned by the City of Greater Geraldton into houses.

The $5.99 million project would help attract and retain staff to Geraldton in key professions, including teaching, healthcare, and police.

Housing Minister John Carey, who was in Geraldton on Tuesday, said it was part of a commitment to boost housing supply across the state.

“Our Government continues to do everything we can to bolster the supply of housing across Western Australia,” he said.

“All tiers of government have a role to play in boosting housing supply and it’s great to work with the City of Greater Geraldton to unlock this site’s development potential for key worker accommodation.”

City of Greater Geraldton councillors voted in May for the city to lobby with the State Government over funding for the precinct.

At the time, executives at the City determined it was in a position to help assist with the housing crisis, despite it not being a responsibility for local government.

In June, mayor Jerry Clune and development services director Ryan Hall met with Mr Carey and Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton in a bid to boost the project.

Regional Development Minister Don Punch said keeping skilled workers in the area was front of mind for the Government.

“We know Geraldton is an amazing place to live, work and visit, and we’re very keen to continue to do whatever we can to make it even better through boosting housing supply and supporting regional development projects that benefit the community,” he said.

“Building new worker accommodation will support local businesses to attract and retain staff in key areas such as teaching, health care and police.”