An innovative short-stay Aboriginal visitor centre heralds a new era for the West Kimberley hub of Derby.
Opening the facility today, Housing Minister Bill Marmion said it would provide hundreds of visitors to the town with affordable accommodation every month.
"All of us can be proud of this achievement," Mr Marmion said.
"This is will significantly reduce hardship often experienced by short-term visitors to the cultural and service hub of Derby."
The joint State and local government venture was funded by an $11.3million grant from the Liberal National Government's Royalties For Regions program and was delivered on time and under budget.
"Research shows up to 10 per cent of Aboriginal people in regional centres like Derby are temporary residents, visiting from surrounding remote communities," Mr Marmion said.
"This facility means dignified accommodation for members of remote Aboriginal communities who need to visit Derby to attend to business or access essential social and government services."
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said regional towns such as Derby were service centres for remote community residents and the facility would alleviate accommodation pressures and safety concerns for Aboriginal visitors.
"This is the second short-stay facility for Aboriginal people built in Western Australia," Mr Redman said.
"Royalties for Regions also helped fund the Kalgoorlie-Boulder facility, which has been in operation for the past 12 months.
"This new project is another example of how Royalties for Regions is helping to create sustainable regional communities."
The Department for Child Protection and Family Services will oversee the centre, which will be operated by MercyCare and Centacare Kimberley, ensuring local knowledge and experience.
Housing Minister's office - 6552 6800
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6700
