The State Government has approved $5.02million of Royalties for Regions funding, through the Regional Development Council Action Agenda Funding Scheme.
The funding would allow senior residents in the Wheatbelt and Great Southern regions to remain living in their communities, rather than moving away to other specialist facilities.
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said it was part of an innovative partnership between seven local governments to house senior residents in their own communities.
The Lakes and 4WD Aged Persons Housing Strategy Alliance is a joint effort between the shires of Kent, Lake Grace (Lakes); and Wagin, West Arthur, Williams, Woodanilling and Dumbleyung (4WD).
Previously, $3.07million of Royalties for Regions funding through the Country Local Government Fund (CLGF) was approved for the construction of an initial 28 units with the alliance planning to deliver 42 units across seven shires across five years.
This latest funding will see the construction of 14 units, including:
eight units (two each for Williams, Lake Grace and Woodanilling; and one each in Dumbleyung and Wagin) to commence in 2013-14
six units (two in Kent; and one each in West Arthur, Wagin, Lake Grace and Dumbleyung) to commence in 2014-15.
Mr Grylls said a survey by the local governments found seniors clearly wanted to remain in their own towns where they felt safe, valued and respected, for as long as possible.
"The construction of these units will help people to remain in their own communities rather than be forced to move away from support networks such as friends and families," he said.
"This accommodation caters for independent, seniors who are able to care for themselves, but need to be close to essential services such as doctors and shops."
Fact File
Shire of Williams is lead agency for the project
First phase of project received funding from Royalties for Regions through CLGF
Total of $195.4m invested in Wheatbelt by Royalties for Regions since 2008-09
Minister's office - 6552 5500
