Residents of East Perth are intensifying their opposition to the conversion of the luxury Fraser Suites hotel into a mixed-use social and affordable housing complex. Protesters assert that their main grievance lies not against social housing itself, but rather their feeling of being blindsided by the state government’s recent $100 million purchase without adequate community consultation.
Homelessness advocates are contesting this local resistance, termed “Not In My Backyard” (NIMBYism), arguing that, amid a critical housing crisis, such attitudes hinder essential developments. Currently, approximately 22,000 Western Australians are on a two-year waitlist for social housing, and advocates stress that the 236 rooms proposed in the converted hotel will not significantly alleviate the problem. Kath Snell from Shelter WA highlighted the dire circumstances many face, including individuals living in cars or under bridges.
Local residents, many of whom live in close proximity to the hotel, express concerns about the implications of higher density, shared spaces, and parking resulting from the housing complex. “We want to ensure the process includes community consultation and aligns with proper planning,” stated one protester. Another added that while they support social housing, it should be executed thoughtfully, suggesting that Australia has the means to do better.
Housing Minister John Carey has acknowledged the pressing nature of the issue, particularly the increasing number of women over 55 at risk of homelessness. Despite meeting with residents to address their concerns, many feel that these discussions have not been sufficient. As the government explores repurposing more buildings into social housing, residents fear a repeat of inadequate consultation.
The sentiment among locals is clear: without proper communication and planning, the expected developments could have unintended negative consequences for the community. As public pressure mounts, the challenge remains to balance the urgent need for housing solutions with the concerns of existing residents.