17/10/02
The proposed acquisition of a property in Broome to provide medium-term accommodation to people being treated at the town's soon-to-be-completed renal dialysis facility was announced today by Housing and Works Minister Tom Stephens.
Mr Stephens said capital funding for the hostel would come from the Department of Housing and Works' (DHW) Community Housing Program through an additional $5.5million State Government funding provided for homeless people.
The proposal was conditional on the DHW being granted approval from the Broome Shire to operate the building as a hostel and this was currently being progressed.
The Department of Health would provide operating funding for the renal dialysis facility.
"This hostel and the new facility will take some pressure off the Derbal Yerrigan operated dialysis facility in Guildford Road, Maylands," Mr Stephens said.
"Many Kimberley patients have to reside in Perth for their treatment and have the added disadvantage of being away from their families for long periods of time.
"This hostel will now allow patients from the outer-lying Kimberley region to receive their treatment in Broome without the added worry of having to find accommodation."
Mr Stephens said his department had negotiated for Aboriginal Hostels Ltd to manage the building in conjunction with the Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service.
He said the facility would have a 24-hour on-site manager and would be alcohol freedue to residents receiving treatment for renal failure.
The building in Forrest Street, Broome was built 17 years ago and includes 26 bedrooms, a manager's residence and office, outdoor recreation areas and a swimming pool.
The hostel would be modified to include a commercial kitchen upgrade, wheelchair access to two bedrooms and one bathroom, car park and crossover paving, and general maintenance.
Aboriginal Hostels Ltd will be providing financial assistance towards the purchase of the building and also infrastructure funding to operate the building as a hostel.
Mr Stephens said that the combined facilities would offer a much-needed local service to Kimberley people and bring financial benefits to the region, including employment.
Minister's Office - 9213 6500
