Accommodation boost to support seasonal workers in Esperance

The McGowan Government will provide $40,000 to the Shire of Esperance to boost local accommodation availability for seasonal workers during the summer in Esperance.

The funding will help the shire to undertake immediate building works to bring the former Bluewaters hostel back into use for workers’ accommodation.

Esperance is anticipating high visitor numbers as people look to explore the State and Wander out Yonder for the summer holidays.

Local businesses are already experiencing a labour shortage in key sectors such as tourism and hospitality, and it is anticipated that jobseekers will arrive to help fill vacant positions. A lack of low-cost accommodation for seasonal workers has been flagged as a potential issue.

The former hostel has been vacant for some time and with hotel and motel accommodation anticipated to be at capacity during the summer months, the investment will ensure short-term accommodation is available for seasonal and emergency services workers.

The shire, Esperance Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission have been working with local businesses to support the rising demand for workers in the region and ensure Esperance businesses are prepared for the busy months ahead.

Those seeking work in Esperance or across regional Western Australia are advised to visit the Wander out Yonder jobseeker information page at https://www.wa.gov.au

As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:

“With a buoyant domestic tourism market, the Esperance region is experiencing a high demand for labour particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

“Repurposing the vacant backpacker accommodation is a unique opportunity to open up short-term accommodation options for seasonal workers in the region.”

As stated by Agricultural Region MLC Darren West:

“The McGowan Government is working hand-in-hand with the Shire of Esperance and local industry to ensure accommodation is available for jobseekers to stay and experience Esperance’s unique coastal lifestyle.

“This will be a huge help to local industry gearing up for one of the busiest summers on record.”

As stated by Shire of Esperance Chief Executive Officer Shane Burge:

“I would like to sincerely thank State Government for their generous funding.

“A lot of local businesses are really feeling the squeeze, with increasing demand and a lack of labour available, so this funding towards increased workers’ accommodation will go a long way to alleviating some of these issues.”