New structure for government services paves the way for more focused, collaborative and community-centred service delivery.
On 1 July 2025, the Western Australian Government implemented a refreshed structure for government services, marking a significant milestone in the Public Sector Reform Program. This includes the establishment of the new Department of Housing and Works , led by Director General Leon McIvor.
The Department of Housing and Works brings together expertise from the Housing portfolio in Department of Communities and the Department of Finance to oversee the construction, maintenance and refurbishment of public housing, and key infrastructure projects such as schools, hospitals and police stations. It will also manage tenancy services, housing in remote Aboriginal communities and properties used by government employees.
The changes are enabling the Department of Communities to sharpen its focus on delivering person-centred, place-based support to the most vulnerable members of our community.
We now serve five Ministers and maintain responsibility for ten key human service portfolios.
Our work spans a wide range of essential services to keep children safe; provide vital community services, including in emergencies; address homelessness; prevent family and domestic violence; provide stewardship for the disability sector; regulate the early childhood and care sector; and manage the agenda for Women's interests, youth, seniors and ageing, carers and volunteering.
Communities will continue to evolve, ensuring our services remain responsive, inclusive and impactful. This renewed structure empowers us to deepen our partnerships with families, communities, community sector organisations, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs).
In partnership with the Department of Housing and Works, we have established a Service Agreement that will enable both agencies to continue delivering seamless services during Stage 2 of the Public Sector Reform Program (July to December 2025).
For community members and stakeholders who engage with the Department of Communities and now, the Department of Housing and Works, nothing changes for you. You will still contact the same people via the same phone numbers and email accounts.
As we commence this new era, we invite all staff, partners and members of the public to help shape the future of our renewed department and continue to build safe, inclusive and empowered communities across Western Australia.
Visit the Department of Housing and Works .
