The McGowan Government has delivered on a key election commitment to fund a crisis and transitional accommodation service in Collie.
Responding to community need for emergency housing, the Collie Transitional Accommodation Service has been established to support local residents when they need it most.
It can accommodate two families, or up to six adults, across two Department of Communities properties.
One property will be used for short-term emergency housing, while the other will provide clients with transitional accommodation.
The service is operated by crisis care provider AccordWest, which also offers wrap-around support services to assist clients with overcoming any barriers they face to securing future long-term accommodation.
In addition to managing a safe space for clients, AccordWest will work with local community service providers on a collaborative approach to maximise available resources for people experiencing homelessness in Collie.
The McGowan Government committed to establishing additional services in Collie ahead of the 2017 State election, after it was identified as a pressing community need in the area.
As stated by Community Services and Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Simone McGurk:
"The Collie Transitional Accommodation Service will provide important community services for the local area.
"The McGowan Government is proud to have delivered on a key commitment that will help to fill a critical gap for the people of Collie.
"The State Government's partnership with AccordWest will help to deliver direct support to vulnerable people who are in urgent need of a roof over their head, offering them a safe space when they need it most.
"Importantly, it will also link clients in to a network of specialist service providers that can help them achieve longer-term solutions."
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray:
"I am thrilled as the member for Collie-Preston that the McGowan Government has delivered on this important commitment.
"This transitional housing will be made available to the most vulnerable members of the Collie community in emergency situations.
"I have personally seen the impact that homelessness and family and domestic violence has had on the Collie community, and have been pushing for extra assistance with temporary housing for people who are trying to get back on their feet.
"While we would prefer for members of the community to not need this emergency accommodation, more support will now be available in town for those facing crisis situations than ever before."
