Mid West-Gascoyne builder GBSC Yurra has received a contract to construct the Geraldton Aboriginal Short Stay Accommodation in Western Australia (WA). 

Awarded by the WA Government, the contract is worth A$23.4m ($15.39m).  

The project is WA's fourth Aboriginal Short Stay facility in Geraldton. 

It is aimed at supporting Indigenous Australian visitors from remote communities across the West-Gascoyne region and beyond.  

These visitors are said to often travel to Geraldton to access services or due to cultural obligations. 

The new accommodation will feature 44 units, including 16 for singles or couples, 14 family rooms, and 14 universally accessible rooms, with a capacity to house up to 100 guests.  

The design incorporates communal and sustainable elements, including solar photovoltaics, a children's nature play area, and a half basketball court. 

Eastman Poletti Sherwood Architects, based in Geraldton, has designed the facility with communal cooking, dining, and laundry facilities.  

WA Aboriginal Affairs minister Tony Buti said: “The Geraldton Short Stay will provide safe, affordable and culturally considered accommodation for Aboriginal people travelling into Geraldton from regional and remote communities, and have the capability to connect guests to local services. 

"GBSC Yurra is a local company with demonstrated experience and commitment to achieving - and exceeding - Aboriginal employment targets during the construction of the Short Stay." 

Construction is expected to commence on 31 January 2024. 

GBSC plans to hire ten Indigenous Australian employees for the project's construction phase.