Wednesday, 4 September 2013

• 48-bed unisex facility to open in 2014
• Facility to be built on Pilbara Institute Pundulmurra Campus

A 48-bed housing facility for trainees and apprentices in Hedland took another step forward today with JAXON construction appointed to build the $19million Mirnutharntu Maya project in South Hedland.

The State Government has committed $8million to the project through Royalties for Regions.

Housing Minister Bill Marmion said construction of the modular buildings had already begun offsite, with onsite works to begin in September.

“I’m pleased construction can get under way to deliver additional safe, secure and affordable accommodation to apprentices and trainees in the Pilbara,” Mr Marmion said.

“Mirnutharntu Maya has been designed to expand to 68 beds. Additional accommodation will be built for staff, mentors and emergency accommodation for families of trainees/apprentices.

“The facility will be constructed on the Pilbara Institute’s Pundulmurra Campus, providing convenient access for trainees or apprentices undertaking units at the institute.”

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the Mirnutharntu Maya project was a partnership between the departments of Regional Development; Training and Workforce Development; and Housing, BHP Billiton Iron Ore, the Pilbara Development Commission, and the Federal Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.

“The State Government’s partnership with BHP Billiton Iron Ore represents a joint commitment to achieve increased indigenous participation in education, training and employment in the Pilbara,” Mr Grylls said.

“This unique partnership will assist many young people in the region to develop skills that will contribute to building a sustainable future for their communities.”

The Department of Housing will be responsible for managing the construction project and selecting an organisation to operate the hostel. The facility is expected to be completed in 2014.

Fact File

• BHP Billiton Iron Ore has committed $11million to the project
• Mirnutharntu Maya is a Kariyarra name which means ‘living to learn’
• This Government has delivered 10,000 affordable homes under its Affordable Homes Strategy - well on track to its target of 20,000 by 2020