- Works well underway on $19.5 million refurbishment of the heritage-listed Graham Flats in West Perth
- Heritage-listed 70-unit complex constructed in 1958 for seniors
- Refurbishment works being delivered by Shelford Constructions
The Cook Labor Government is progressing one of the most significant investments in a Western Australian public housing complex, with the $19.5 million refurbishment of the heritage-listed Graham Flats in West Perth now well underway.
The original construction of Graham Flats was completed in 1958 on behalf of the then-State Housing Commission, primarily to address a shortfall in public housing following the end of the Second World War.
The historic 70-unit complex, built to house seniors, was entered on the State Register of Heritage Places in 2001 in recognition of its cultural heritage significance.
Last year, Shelford Constructions was awarded the refurbishment project through the State Government's Housing Construction and Refurbishment Builders Panel.
There are more than 45,000 social housing dwellings across Western Australia and the State invests significantly in maintenance and refurbishments of ageing properties.
Graham Flats refurbishment works commenced with an emphasis on restoring its original detail and preserving its heritage significance while delivering contemporary design, with modern features for tenants.
Existing tenants of the complex were relocated in stages to allow refurbishment works to be undertaken.
Phase one external works were completed in early 2025.
Phase two and phase three external and internal works are now well underway, including sewer and electrical upgrades, roof replacement, kitchen and bathroom replacements, lighting upgrades, euro laundries, glazing replacement, and full unit upgrades.
The refurbishment program will significantly extend the useful life of the heritage-listed complex while ensuring tenants benefit from modern, compliant, and safe homes.
Refurbishment works are expected to be completed mid-2026.
The Cook Government has invested a record $5.8 billion in housing and homelessness measures since 2021, including significant investments to ensure stock remains in the public housing system for longer.
As stated by Housing and Works Minister John Carey:
"This $19.5 million project represents the most significant investment in a WA social housing complex for more than a decade and demonstrates our government's commitment to ensuring stock remains in the system for longer.
"There are more than 45,000 social housing dwellings across WA and our government recognises the need to invest in maintaining and refurbishing ageing stock.
"Once complete, up to 70 tenants will be able to call Graham Flats home, with upgraded kitchens, bathrooms and services, and safe, secure accommodation that meets modern standards.
"Our government is committed to ensuring every Western Australian has a secure home, including by investing to return ageing stock to the public housing system."
