The State Government, through Lotterywest, has provided a $608,000 Lotterywest grant to support the Western Desert Lands Aboriginal Corporation (Jamukurnu-Yapalikunu) protect isolated communities from the impacts of COVID-19.
The grant will go towards installation, fit-out and co-ordination costs for essential shelter and quarantine facilities for seven East Pilbara remote communities.
As a result of COVID-19, limited external access to remote Aboriginal communities was introduced in order to better protect the health and wellbeing of residents.
Martu Ngurra is home to Martu people, the Traditional Owners of a large part of the Central Western Desert.
Under normal circumstances, up to 800 Martu people live across the communities of Punmu, Parnngurr, Kunawarritji, Kiwirrkurra, Warralong, Jigalong and Strelley.
During COVID-19, people were encouraged to return to their communities, resulting in a spike in population, placing a strain on accommodation.
The Western Desert Lands Aboriginal Corporation has acquired 10 four-bedroom dongas to be used as quarantine units to both reduce overcrowding and provide an essential buffer between vulnerable community members and potential sources of the virus.
The Lotterywest grant will assist with the installation of the dongas and essential amenities, such as air conditioners, kitchen appliances, linen and generators.
For more information about approved Lotterywest grants, visit http://www.lotterywest.wa.gov.au/lotterywest/grants/approved-grants-list/
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"This Lotterywest grant is working to protect disadvantaged people most at risk of serious infection within our remote regions.
"We want to ensure communities are kept safe and help them to make informed decisions when it comes to maintaining effective quarantine.
"These dedicated isolation facilities located in or near each of these communities are vital in the protection of regional Western Australians from COVID-19."
