- $10.5 million project funded through the State Government's $200 million North-West Aboriginal Housing Fund
- Accommodation and training facility for Aboriginal apprentices and low-income trade employees
- Centre will also be used to deliver training and support programs to the broader community
The Wunggu Maya Housing and Training Centre was officially opened in Roebourne today, following a $10.5 million contribution from the Cook Labor Government.
The State Government funded Yindjibarndi Aboriginal Corporation (Yindjibarndi) to construct the centre, which currently provides 10 transitional homes, an office and a training facility.
The centre offers culturally secure wraparound support services onsite to assist tenants, enhance employment and education, and build financial capability with the aim to progressing towards the private housing market.
Three two-bedroom and six one-bedroom dwellings will provide important housing for Aboriginal apprentices and trainees, including those re-entering the community from the corrections system.
The project was funded through the $200 million North-West Aboriginal Housing Fund (NWAHF).
The fund invests in Aboriginal-led housing programs and is supporting Yindjibarndi in leading the project. This includes the initial concept and design, the current construction process and ultimately, the facility's operation.
Yindjibarndi successfully secured a Lotterywest grant of $557,875 to support the fit-out of the facility.
The name Wunggu Maya is comprised of Wunggu, meaning 'to give someone shelter for a while' and Maya, meaning 'place'.
As stated by Housing and Works Minister John Carey:
"The Wunggu Maya centre will enable Aboriginal apprentices and low-income workers to access suitable stable, affordable and safe accommodation.
"Importantly, this facility provides wraparound services that are vital to ensuring people can sustain and thrive in their tenancies.
"The construction of this centre supported the work of two Aboriginal apprentices, three Aboriginal trade workers and eight Aboriginal trade assistants, some of whom are now tenants at Wunggu Maya.
"On-site services will focus on assisting residents to develop the necessary skills for eventual entry into the private housing market by enhancing their employment and education, improving their health and wellbeing, and remaining connected to culture."
As stated by Pilbara and Skills and TAFE Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"Wunggu Maya will provide important support and accommodation for Aboriginal apprentices, trainees and those in low-income trades as they navigate the demands of re-entering the community and the private housing market.
"The complementary services developed in consultation with the Yindjibarndi Nation ensures targeted support, while the training facility offers wider community benefits."
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch:
"This new centre will be a great addition to Roebourne and the surrounding communities, providing culturally informed training opportunities and working with Aboriginal people to create long-term employment for local people.
"The State Government is focused on partnering with Aboriginal people to increase housing options in a way that supports their aspirations, responds to local circumstances and facilitates educational and training outcomes.
"The NWAHF continues to demonstrate how the innovative use of housing in the regions can build capacity, opportunity, prosperity and wellbeing."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"I'm pleased to see this important $10.5 million project officially opened, funded through the State Government's $200 million North-West Aboriginal Housing Fund.
"This new facility will deliver real benefits to the Pilbara community - providing safe accommodation and practical support for Aboriginal apprentices and low-income trade employees, while also serving as a hub for training and community programs.
"It's a significant investment in local people, skills, and futures."
