9/6/06
A $300,000 housing project which will provide a welcome boost to seniors' accommodation in the Wheatbelt was officially opened by Housing and Works Minister Michelle Roberts today.
The project provides two two-bedroom units at Corrigin.
"This is a joint venture community housing project between the Department of Housing and Works (DHW), the Corrigin Senior Citizens' Centre and the Corrigin Shire," Mrs Roberts said.
"Joint ventures between the Department of Housing and Works and community groups are providing real solutions for creating homes for low-income seniors in regional Western Australia.
"What we are seeing here is a collaborative effort to provide 'senior friendly' homes which hopefully will result in older people being able to live independently for longer.
"The Carpenter Government is committed to improving the quality of life for all Western Australians, wherever they live."
The Minister said the department had appointed Colin Cockram Architect to design and document the project in joint consultation with the shire.
The shire provided the land in Goyder Street, Corrigin, fully serviced and ready for construction purposes and the building contract was awarded to M and V Ranieri. The Corrigin Senior Citizens' Centre provided almost $65,000 towards the project.
Mrs Roberts said the department's joint venture program had been extremely successful throughout WA. The program allowed non-profit incorporated groups and local authorities to provide locally managed housing for designated target groups.
"Community-based landlords include housing associations, co-operatives, aged care housing providers, and church and welfare groups which have established accommodation programs," the Minister said.
"The program differs markedly from mainstream public housing in terms of tenant involvement and participation, and its links to local community supports.
"It provides a vital alternative to public housing for people on low incomes, or people with special needs."
The senior citizens' centre is responsible for the ongoing management of the Corrigin units and will report to the Department of Housing and Works on an annual basis.
Minister's office: 9213 6600
