The next state budget allocates a $692 million regional housing package, including $419 million to buy or lease government worker housing and aim to deliver 500 homes across seven regional cities by 2030.

The seven cities identified as regional hubs are Bunbury, Kalgoorlie, Karratha, Port Hedland, Broome, Geraldton, and Albany, with funding designed to support frontline workers and local industry.

The plan is designed to attract and retain teachers, police, nurses, and other essential workers to sustain regional growth and support local manufacturing and renewable energy development.

The Premier frames the initiative as crucial for sustaining Western Australia’s economy and expanding Karratha and Port Hedland as hubs for renewable energy and broader services.

Industry and business groups welcome the plan as a first step to address housing supply and related skills shortages that hinder regional growth.

Representatives from Rio Tinto, BHP, and Hancock Prospecting emphasize housing as foundational for attracting and retaining essential workers in regional communities.

Corporate voices highlight housing as essential for attracting teachers, police, and frontline workers who underpin regional development.

The regional development plan was outlined at a Chamber of Minerals and Energy breakfast, emphasizing seven regional cities and housing incentives for regional public-sector workers.

Housing Minister stresses that easing private market pressure and driving growth in the Pilbara hinges on targeted housing for frontline workers.

Mining companies are contributing about $170 million to the initiative, with Rio Tinto adding $100 million for housing in Wickham, Tom Price, Paraburdoo, and Roebourne as part of delivering 500 homes.

The initiative seeks to reduce private housing demand pressures and support regional hubs in mining and renewable energy sectors by providing housing for public-sector workers.

The overall plan positions WA as a renewable energy and manufacturing hub by ensuring regional towns have housing that supports essential services and growth.