A New Housing Facility To Support The Homeless Will Be Built In East Perth

The WA Government today announced the first ever “Common Ground” housing facility for Perth.

It’s a model used in facilities around the world, with the aim of providing “affordable and permanent housing to people who are experiencing chronic homelessness, sleeping rough or at risk of becoming homeless,” Minister Simone McGurk announced via Facebook today.

The announcement came in conjunction with Labor Member For Perth John Carey and WA Premier Mark McGowan, who said the housing will be “coupled with an intensive case-management support program, to help clients maintain their tenancy, build their independence and prevent a return to homelessness or rough sleeping later in life.”

The accomodation will be located on the corner of Hill and Wellington Street in East Perth, and will have around-the-clock staffing and on-site support services.

The ministers also announced $6.8million more funding will be put towards homeless services during COVID-19, including the establishment of 50 temporary accomodation options where people can stay and get support where required.

“The evidence from Common Grounds in other cities tells us that it will also significantly reduce the amount of services required, delivering savings to taxpayers,” Ms McGurk said, “This State Government is investing $35 million in two Common Grounds.”

Header image via.