The McGowan Government has named Perth-based Petra Westkey as the preferred proponent to construct a multi-user workforce accommodation facility in Kalbarri to help support local businesses.
The State Government issued a Registration of Interest (ROI) that sought interested parties to construct and operate a multi-user workforce accommodation facility at a 6,740 square-metre site on Woods Street, Kalbarri.
Petra Westkey's successful submission proposed the construction of a 44-dwelling, 56-person capacity accommodation facility, which will consist of prefabricated modular dwellings constructed in Wangara and transported to Kalbarri.
The Woods Street site is centrally located within walking distance of several amenities in Kalbarri including the shopping centre, hospitality, the beach, and recreational facilities.
The State Government will now enter contract negotiations with the proponent.
As stated by Lands Minister John Carey:
"This is a positive result for the Kalbarri community and the impact that this development will have on the town and the Mid-West economy will be significant.
"At the last election, this Government made an election commitment to release suitable available land for a multi-user workforce accommodation facility. The past couple of years have seen the town continue its rebuilding efforts in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Seroja in 2021.
"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.
"The location of this facility in the heart of the town will better enable local businesses to attract and retain staff to help to rebuild the town."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"Offering a purpose-built and cost-effective solution to support the local workforce will allow local businesses to tap into the extraordinary tourism potential of Kalbarri.
"The Mid West Development Commission has worked hard on this ROI, to ensure there is capacity for small businesses to realise their full potential in the region."
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Cyclone Seroja had a devastating impact on Kalbarri, including on the availability of accommodation.
"A purpose-built workforce accommodation will not only support the local economy, industry and businesses, but will also ensure the town is well-placed to respond to any emergencies in the future."
