A luxury five-star hotel in East Perth, recently acquired by the state government for $105 million, is set to be repurposed into a social housing tower. This transformation will convert the hotel’s upscale suites into 236 social and affordable homes aimed at providing accommodation for the community’s vulnerable residents. However, local residents living in adjacent towers expressed surprise and concern regarding the sudden acquisition, feeling they were not adequately informed.
Members of the East Perth Community Group have voiced their apprehensions, with Ben Stephenson highlighting the prevailing anxiety within the community due to a perceived lack of consultation from the authorities about this significant change. They feel that the plan unfolds in an uncontrolled manner, leaving them in a state of uncertainty.
In attempts to engage with the housing minister for clarity, the group has faced barriers, including being left waiting for a meeting that did not materialise. Local resident David Wilding did not mince words, stating that the government could handle the situation much better.
By the end of the year, a community housing provider will be appointed to manage the newly transformed property, with residents expected to begin moving in shortly thereafter. Despite the impending changes, the community remains eager for dialogue, pushing for a meeting with the housing minister to express their concerns directly. They will have an opportunity to do so at an upcoming feedback session organised by the state.