An $18million hostel at South Hedland to house apprentices and trainees is under construction, with the first units installed on the site.
Housing Minister Bill Marmion said the Mirnutharntu Maya hostel would provide affordable accommodation in the Pilbara, with preference given to Western Australians of Aboriginal descent, aged 16 to 25.
The modular buildings have been constructed off site and then installed on the Pilbara Institute's Pundulmurra campus in South Hedland, providing easy access for trainees or apprentices studying there.
"Providing safe, secure and affordable accommodation will ensure that the apprentices and trainees living there can focus on their studies and learning their trade," Mr Marmion said.
"We are committed to providing affordable accommodation for all Western Australians, especially those on lower incomes who may not otherwise afford to live in the Pilbara."
Once completed next year, the 48-bed unisex hostel will also provide accommodation for hostel staff, mentors and short-stay accommodation for families of trainees or apprentices.
"The hostel will also provide residents with support services to help them develop their life skills to secure future employment opportunities," Mr Marmion said.
Mirnutharntu Maya is a partnership between the Department of Regional Development, BHP Billiton Iron Ore, the Pilbara Development Commission, the Department of Housing and the Australian Government. It is being constructed by JAXON.
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman commended the partnership, saying the joint commitment would help achieve increased Aboriginal participation in education, training and employment in the Pilbara.
The project is funded by BHP Billiton Iron Ore and the State Government's Royalties for Regions program. The Department of Housing will manage the construction project and select an organisation to operate the hostel.
Housing Minister's office - 6552 6800
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6700
