Future Groote Residential Development
Addressing Housing Shortages for Essential Workers
Historically, there has always been a shortage of housing for essential workers on Groote, leading to vacant positions in crucial facilities such as age care facilities, schools, and hospitals.
GHAC’s Initiatives
GHAC is currently in the process of developing a large residential development aimed at accommodating essential workers and their families. This initiative is vital for supporting the various commercial activities in the area.
Key Role in LDMA and Future Groote Economy
The development of a new residential estate is a crucial component for the success of the LDMA and the overall Future Groote economy. By offering a variety of housing styles and amenities comparable to other regional centers across Australia, the estate aims to attract and retain critical workers and their families to the Groote Archipelago.
Government Focus on Health Sector Employees
Government departments highlight a specific demand for health sector employees, with an anticipated requirement of around 21 full-time equivalent workers. This demand reflects the ongoing need for medical care in Indigenous communities like the Anindilyakwa.
Housing Challenges in Existing GEMCO-owned Properties
The existing GEMCO-owned housing in Alyangula faces challenges, with many structures being old, containing asbestos, and requiring substantial repairs and modernization. The future of these properties and the township itself post-GEMCO is uncertain, necessitating immediate planning to address the short-term accommodation shortfall and align with future needs.
Strategic Location of Little Paradise Residential Estate
The proposed Little Paradise Residential Estate subdivision, situated approximately halfway between Alyangula and the proposed Harbour, is strategically positioned to serve local communities, mainland commercial enterprises, the future mine on Akwamburrkba, and the independent school on Bickerton Island.
Short-Term Solutions: Modular-style Buildings
Recognising the urgency to house a significant number of health workers in the short term, GHAC is considering the use of 10 modular-style buildings on approximately 1ha of the estate. These self-sufficient units, with minimal carbon impact, will have individual solar arrays, battery backup, and generators, designed to endure the region’s climatic conditions. Greywater will be fully utilised via a secondary wastewater treatment facility. These modular units can be repurposed or repositioned as larger, long-term housing is constructed on the estate.
Traditional Owner Business Opportunities
Anindilyakwa Housing will play a crucial role in rental management and maintenance, providing business opportunities for Traditional Owners in the ongoing management of the residential developments.
