The McGowan Government is seeking registrations of interest (ROI) from suitably qualified proponents to acquire Crown land and develop a multi-user workforce accommodation facility in Kalbarri.
At approximately 6,740 square metres, the site on Woods Street is centrally located within walking distance of Kalbarri's shopping, hospitality, recreation and beach areas.
Tourism is Kalbarri's most significant economic contributor with demand for services fluctuating throughout the year. This attracts a significant seasonal workforce which has flow-on effects to related sectors of the economy, including hospitality, accommodation and retail.
Increased domestic tourism has placed significant pressure on accommodation supply within the town which was already a significant challenge during the peak tourism periods.
Unlocking suitable Crown land for a new workforce accommodation facility will support local businesses in attracting and retaining staff, assist current reconstruction efforts and provide a longer-term asset to boost supply.
Registrations of interest are open until 5pm Friday April 8, 2022. For more information about the land release, visit https://www.wa.gov.au/crown-land-divestment
As stated by Lands Minister John Carey:
"At the last election, the McGowan Government committed to releasing suitable land for a multi-user workforce accommodation facility in Kalbarri and we are delivering on that promise.
"Over the past year, the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage has worked closely with the Shire of Northampton to identify a suitable location, and initiate a local planning scheme amendment which would allow a workforce accommodation facility to be developed on this site.
"Kalbarri's economy relies heavily on seasonal tourism, and by delivering a new worker accommodation facility, we are supporting the long-term sustainability of local businesses and industry in the town.
"I am confident that the prime location of this site, as well as proposed changes to the planning framework, will encourage interested parties to make submissions for developing an asset that has significant long-term potential in a popular tourist destination."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"There is extraordinary activity in tourism in the region and offering cost-effective solutions to boost the workforce will enable it to realise its potential.
"This project and the opportunity that this ROI represents has been greatly facilitated by the work of the Mid West Development Commission to ensure that there is sector capacity to deliver.
"We look forward to working with industry to see this great opportunity realised."
