New hostel for Aboriginal students in Kununurra

21/12/04
A $3million student hostel will be built in Kununurra following an allocation of Crown land for the facility by the State Government.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the 6.9ha site near Lily Creek, approximately three kilometres south-east of Kununurra on the Victoria Highway, would be granted to Aboriginal Hostels Limited (AHL).
Ms MacTiernan said the hostel would predominantly serve Aboriginal students from remote communities in the East Kimberley.
"Kununurra was identified by AHL as a preferred location for a hostel, due to the demand for boarding facilities from families in the East Kimberley," she said.
"There is also community support for a new hostel to be built in the East Kimberley."
The 40-bed facility is a joint initiative involving both the AHL and the Country High Schools Authority.
The Minister said the Government was committed to improving educational opportunities for Aboriginal students from remote areas.
"Providing residential facilities in strategic locations is an important part of creating a supportive environment for young people to learn and develop skills," she said.
"The Government is pleased to be able to provide the land for the hostel and by doing so meet a need of the people of the East Kimberley."
Kimberley MLA Carol Martin said the support and work of local Aboriginal communities in advancing the project to this stage had been significant and had enhanced the spirit of co-operation between the parties involved in the project.
"Once completed, the facility, and those who use it, will continue to benefit from the ongoing support of local people," Ms Martin said.
The land will be transferred to the AHL under section 75 of the Land Administration Act 1997, with conditions that the land be used for the intended purpose - student accommodation.

Minister's office: 9213 6400