Five-year wait for much-needed housing in WA's holiday hotspot

A housing charity aiming to construct prefabricated, small homes for the homeless in Margaret River, a popular tourist destination in Western Australia, faces a prolonged bureaucratic challenge. The development application for the long-empty railway barracks area has recently been submitted following years of discussions with the state government regarding the use of the land. The initiative was originally suggested by the local Rotary club five years ago as a means to offer social housing on unused land for the growing number of homeless individuals in the region. Julian Sanderson and Gordon Temby were among the initial proponents of constructing tiny houses at the former railway barracks site. According to Michelle Blakeley, founder of MyHome, the ongoing effort to obtain a peppercorn lease of the crown land from the state government has been protracted, although there is broad public backing for increased social and alternative housing options in Margaret River and surrounding areas. Blakeley emphasized that the demand for holiday rentals in the area results in high rental prices, making it difficult for many residents, including essential workers, to afford housing despite employment. Blakeley noted that her organization has already constructed 30 small social homes on leased vacant land in North Fremantle and Albany, along with 24 homes in Carlisle. She highlighted the need for streamlining the procedures involving land leases, assessments, and securing government funding to enable housing charities to assist the homeless population effectively. She expressed frustration with the extended red tape process, especially during colder months when the situation becomes more critical. The Department of Planning indicated that negotiations must occur with the local Aboriginal corporation, Karri Karrak. Abby Phillis, CEO of Karri Karrak, stated that while the land was originally meant to be part of the Noongar Land Estate, the corporation supports the provision of social and affordable housing on the site. Andrea Sevley, chief executive of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, mentioned that the project will now undergo evaluation, emphasizing the shire’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing access to safe, secure, and affordable housing. A state government representative denied claims that bureaucratic processes were responsible for the project's delayed progress, stating that MyHome had only recently re-engaged with planning officials. The spokesperson explained that MyHome conducted its own due diligence and found the site unsuitable for residential development. Although the land qualifies for inclusion in the Noongar Land Estate, it has not yet been presented to Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation, and its eligibility has not contributed to any delays. If the project receives approval, the department will consider suitable tenure arrangements to facilitate the development. Blakeley clarified that the proposed project should be viewed as small social homes rather than mobile "tiny homes," which are typically placed on trailers and privately owned. Both types of housing have been considered potential solutions to the housing crisis, but acquiring the required approvals can be challenging. Earlier this year, the Shire of Capel granted permission for a privately owned permanent tiny-homes-on-wheels community, marking what is believed to be the first such instance in the region.