Eatts claims shire forced to house police and medical staff in Parliament debate slamming Government housing

News
Written By Bevan Eatts

Manjimup Bridgetown Times 19 November 2025

Summary
Warren–Blackwood MLA Bevan Eatts has criticised the Cook Government in Parliament over a lack of suitable housing for essential regional workers, claiming it is undermining service delivery in key sectors like health, policing, and aged care. He cited cases like Boyup Brook, where local councils are forced to lease private housing to support staff due to State inaction. Minister John Carey responded by defending the Government’s record and blaming past Liberal-National decisions.

Key Points

  • Eatts said housing shortages are affecting police, teachers, nurses, and aged care workers across regional WA.

  • Claimed lack of Government Regional Officer Housing (GROH) stock deters staff from relocating or staying.

  • Highlighted Boyup Brook Shire leasing private homes due to State failure to provide housing.

  • Criticised additional strain on local governments from forestry and mining rating changes.

  • Called for a statewide GROH audit and new housing delivery timelines for Boyup Brook, Bridgetown, Nannup, and Denmark.

  • Minister Carey said WA leads the nation in housing activity and blamed prior government for selling off 600+ GROH homes.

  • State has allocated $145 million to regional housing, including $104 million for GROH.

Bevan Eatts
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