Housing project brings new opportunities in the Pilbara, Grylls
Author: Brendon Grylls
Published on: 28-July-2011
Regional Development and Lands Minister Brendon Grylls today announced funding of $12million towards the Kariyarra Mugarinya Joint Venture (KMJV) project in South Hedland.
The $22million KMJV project is being co-funded through the State Government’s Royalties for Regions Pilbara Cities initiative and offers sustainable, affordable housing.
Mr Grylls said the project gave local Aboriginals the opportunity to buy their own homes.
“Traditional owners now have the resources to become property developers and benefit from the massive growth occurring in the Pilbara,” he said.
The KMJV project would see 11ha of land developed to the east of South Hedland, with the potential for 154 new dwellings.
“The provision of housing alternatives and multiple development ideas within the Pilbara is a high priority for this Government,” the Minister said.
“Pilbara Cities is aiming to transform Port and South Hedland to a more attractive, sustainable location where people want to live and call home.
“A key component of this is the development of affordable and accessible housing options.”
The KMJV-owned Kariyarra Mugarinya Developments has guaranteed 70 per cent of the profit from the project’s residential sales will be used to establish an Aboriginal Housing Trust in the Pilbara. These funds will be reinvested into more affordable home ownership initiatives.
“This initiative will assist to reduce the pressure on social housing and offer employment and training opportunities for local Aboriginal people wanting to be involved,” Mr Grylls said.
“It is a perfect example of how the proceeds of economic decisions flowed back to the community.”
