[Greens-Media] WA Government playing catch-up on housing

[Norton, Tim (Sen R. Siewert)]

WA Government playing catch-up on housing
Thursday 11th December 2008

The WA Government needs to seriously invest in Indigenous housing, to
address inadequate funding in the past by both State and Federal
Governments, said the Australian Greens today.

"Both State and Federal governments need to play catch-up fast by
investing the funding required to replace or upgrade homes in Indigenous
communities," said Senator Rachel Siewert.

A recent WA government audit found that $540 million needs to be spent
renovating nearly 2,500 homes in Indigenous communities in Western
Australia.

"If we are to close the gap on Indigenous health we need to tackle not
only the crucial social issues such as housing but also ensure essential
services are provided to these remote communities," said Senator
Siewert.

"The cost of providing or restoring these essential services should not
be seen as part of the cost of fixing Indigenous housing - every West
Australian has the right to basic essential services regardless of where
they live."

"This is an equity issue that requires proper investment and
development," she said.

"Housing is a fundamental building block in closing the gap.  Both State
and Federal Governments need to be serious about fixing Indigenous
housing and act appropriately to address this unfair situation,"
concluded Senator Siewert.

For more information or media enquiries please call Tim Norton on 0418
401 180