The McGowan Government has officially opened the Central East Aged Care Alliance (CEACA) network of 71 independent living units across 11 Wheatbelt shires.
The McGowan Government contributed $17.68 million towards the development of the units in Merredin, Bruce Rock, Kellerberrin, Koorda, Mount Marshall, Mukinbudin, Nungarin, Trayning/Kununoppin, Westonia, Wyalkatchem and Yilgarn.
Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan today visited the 27-unit development at Merredin, inspecting the new, high-quality two-bedroom, one-bathroom units and landscaping.
The State funding enabled collaboration between several local government authorities throughout the Wheatbelt to provide much needed aged and disability accommodation via the Central East Aged Care Alliance.
The program is improving liveability in the regions by enabling country residents to stay in their communities and keep families together.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"The CEACA network of high-quality, purpose-built homes will enable older residents and people with disability to remain in their regional community so they can maintain local connections and support.
"The projected growth rate for people aged over 65 in regional areas is greater - often significantly greater - than those in metropolitan areas, highlighting the importance of this type of accommodation in regional communities.
"This is a great example of co-operation between local shires to deliver this much needed infrastructure to our State.
"This development will not only assist those living beyond the Darling Scarp, it will also encourage people to relocate and enjoy the benefits of living in the regions, boosting local jobs and economic growth."
