Minister opens short-stay hostel

Housing Minister Bill Marmion officially opened Derby's new Aboriginal Short Stay Accommodation Service on October 4.

The purpose-built hostel, funded under the State Government's Royalties for Regions program, was established to provide temporary shelter for Aboriginal families from remote communities for up to four weeks at a time.

The 54-bed facility is jointly managed by MercyCare and Centacare Kimberley in partnership with the Department of Housing, the Department of Corrective Services and the Department of Child Protection and Family Support.

Centacare Kimberley works with people from across the region to provide a range of services to people who are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless, or are experiencing financial hardship.

MercyCare chief executive Chris Hall said the organisation looked forward to a successful partnership with Centacare Kimberley to provide a much-needed service.

"DASSA will meet the needs of the Aboriginal community in a practical and meaningful way, by providing a safe and comfortable place to stay while in Derby," she said.

The facility offers a commercial kitchen, communal areas, recreation facilities, a children's playground and barbecue areas.