Launch of Country Housing Authority at Narembeen

6/10/98

The Country Housing Authority was today launched by Housing Minister Dr Kim Hames at Narembeen.

Dr Hames said the Country Housing Authority would replace the former Rural Housing Authority and the Industrial and Commercial Employees Housing Authority.

"The role of the authority will be to ensure that country businesses, farmers and service providers receive more comprehensive housing assistance," he said.

The CHA's client base has been expanded to include:

·         local authorities, wishing to provide housing to a business or service provider within their district;

·         rural employers - including the self-employed;

·         farmers who wish to house employees in close proximity to their farms; and -

·         retired farmers who have transferred their total interest in the family farm to another family member.

"Most importantly, the Country Housing Authority will be flexible in dealing with what can be very unique housing needs in each rural community," Dr Hames said.

"The authority will work closely to develop appropriate assistance packages for Western Australia's country towns.

"The CHA will address impediments to development and encourage the provision of essential services required by small business, farmers and the rural community in general.

"The CHA's Housing Finance Access Program will work to encourage the development of country communities by ensuring farmers, pastoralists, retired farmers and rural employers have access to housing finances for themselves, their dependents and their employees.

"The Housing Development Incentive Program will provide financial incentives designed to ensure businesses and service providers can access housing, where significant economic and social benefits to the rural town or region can be demonstrated."

Dr Hames said the Country Housing Authority was committed to meeting the varying needs of country communities and helping to build a better future in rural WA.

Contact: Caroline Lacy (08)9424 7450

Stephanie Wood, Homeswest public affairs on 9222 4500