The McGowan Government has reached a milestone in its election commitment to address Exmouth's workforce accommodation shortage during peak tourism season.
The State Government is seeking submissions from interested parties to acquire Crown land to construct a new multi-user workforce accommodation facility on Murat Road, near Exmouth townsite.
The 5.9 hectare site is being released in response to a shortage in accommodation available for tourism, hospitality, building and service industry workers.
Tourism is the largest employing industry sector in the Gascoyne region, contributing approximately 667 jobs (14.4 per cent) to the region's total employment. The tourism sector in the region relies predominantly on seasonal workers.
At the last election, the McGowan Government committed to working with the Shire of Exmouth to address the accommodation shortage for tourism workers.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit a development vision that responds to the site's unique opportunities and constraints, outlining their proposed number of accommodation units, associated amenities and services for residents.
Favourable consideration will be given to proposals that present a high-quality design and contemplate future adaptability, including for short-stay accommodation, should demand for workers' accommodation change in the future.
Registrations of interest are open until 3pm (WST) February 3, 2022. For more information about the land release, go to https://www.wa.gov.au/crown-land-divestment
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"The multi-user workforce accommodation facility in Exmouth provides a sensible solution to boost the workforce in this important region to enable it to realise its potential.
"There is a lot happening on the primary industries development and tourism fronts in the region and our Government is moving to enable these initiatives to progress and drive opportunities for economic growth and jobs in the Gascoyne."
As stated by Lands Minister Tony Buti:
"The State Government has worked closely with the Shire of Exmouth to identify an appropriate site for a workforce accommodation facility.
"We are seeking interest for development of the site to create a high-quality facility for a multi-user workforce that will alleviate the pressure on existing supply and support local businesses in attracting and retaining staff."
Land Minister's office - 6552 6400
