Finding solutions to the worker accommodation shortage
In the South West, we know that finding accommodation is an issue. So, we’re doing something about it.
We’re taking a collaborative approach to tackling land and accommodation supply issues in the region – and it’s working.
Together with local government and industry stakeholders, we’re delivering solutions that support local business and industry.
Recently, we celebrated a collective win for the seasonal hospitality, wine and tourism industries in the Margaret River Region.
Following the establishment of a locally-based steering group, we were able to grant $50,000 to Southern Stars Holiday Park towards the development of a worker accommodation site. The allocation of funding came after an identification and expression of interest process, we were able to grant $50,000 to Southern Stars Holiday Park towards the development of a worker accommodation site.
The development will feature powered sites suitable for tents, vans and campers – providing seasonal employees with a place to stay.
The steering group – comprising the SWDC, Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, Margaret River Wine Association, Augusta Margaret River Shire, Tourism WA and City of Busselton – will continue to work in partnership to progress outcomes.
We continue to act on feedback from stakeholders, working with industry and local government to unlock land and accommodation across the region.
More widely, the Commission continues to support workforce development across the region, including for workers in transitioning economies.
We’re proactively working with stakeholders to maximise opportunities
The State Government has launched the $80 million Infrastructure Development Fund. This Fund is aimed at removing barriers to housing developments, as well as facilitating the supply of key worker accommodation in regional areas.
It’s all part of a plan to bring more housing online as quickly as possible right across the State, from the inner city to regional communities.
In the South West, we know that accommodation supply is an issue. So, we’re addressing the problem..
We’ve made unlocking affordable housing opportunities in the region a key priority here at SWDC.
As a result, we have been proactively working with key stakeholders to identify opportunities to unlock housing in the region, including supporting the development of applications. This work has included assessing proposals and are preparing to provide funding assistance to the Infrastructure Development Fund.
Proponents with projects that may be eligible for funding are encouraged to contact us to discuss how we may be able to assist. We’re here to help.
We are continuing work with the Margaret River Region steering group – comprising SWDC, Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, Margaret River Wines, Tourism WA, the City of Busselton and Shire of Augusta Margaret River. This group is steering the Southern Stars Holiday Park extension for temporary workers, along with other opportunities including potential joint venture developments in that region.