Carnarvon looks to address housing challenges through RED grant

The Shire of Carnarvon has signalled its intention to apply for the recently announced RED Grants program to help combat housing challenges in the region for its workers.

The RED Grants program is a State Government initiative and applications can be made for grants up to $250,000 for initiatives that address key issues in regional areas.

The Shire has outlined its intention to apply for this amount to address the local housing crisis, particularly for government workers.

In a review of housing stock, the Shire indicated that in the past 10 years just 20 homes have been built in Carnarvon, rendering the median age of the housing stock at 50 years.

Consultation with several government agencies and private business owners identified that the lack of housing is a key issue limiting employment and population growth.

Should the council be successful they will use the grant to provide additional housing for private and government workforce by developing Shire-owned land in Northwater Estate.