Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation and Accordwest have signed a Memorandum of Understanding the two organisations say strengthen their shared commitment to improving housing, social and economic outcomes for Aboriginal people across the South West.
The agreement "establishes a framework for collaboration, shared learning and community-led approaches to addressing housing and wellbeing challenges in the region".
Under the partnership, Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation (GKB) and Accordwest will work together to "identify and explore opportunities that improve housing outcomes for local Aboriginal people, including culturally appropriate housing initiatives and community-focused projects".
The agreement also recognises the value of ongoing engagement, knowledge sharing and collaboration to support stronger outcomes for individuals, families and communities.
The partnership will enable Accordwest to draw on the cultural knowledge, community connections and experience of GKB to help inform the design and delivery of services, housing and better respond to the needs of Aboriginal people across the South West.
The agreement also includes representation from GKB on Accordwest's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Committee, providing cultural guidance and helping to "strengthen Accordwest's reconciliation journey" through ongoing partnership and community input.
GKB chairperson John Penny said the partnership supports "a commitment to self-determination by ensuring Noongar voices and lived experiences help shape the solutions the community needs".
"This Memorandum of Understanding reflects our commitment to partnering with organisations that share our vision of improving social and economic outcomes for our community," he said.
"We know there are Noongar people across the South West experiencing homelessness and by working with Accordwest we can help shape more informed, culturally appropriate responses.
"Everyone deserves access to safe housing. We welcome initiatives that recognise the unique needs of our people and provide pathways for those who may not be well supported through existing housing services. This partnership is an important step towards creating solutions that are designed with our community, for our community."
Accordwest chief executive Danelle Milward said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to working together to create "meaningful and lasting outcomes".
"This partnership is about walking together. It recognises that the most effective housing and community solutions for Noongar people are those designed with community, not for community. It ensures Noongar voices are at the centre of shaping the housing, services and opportunities that support their communities," she said.
The Memorandum of Understanding provides a foundation for both organisations to "work together on practical initiatives that support improved housing outcomes, stronger community connections and greater opportunities for Aboriginal people throughout the South West", the two groups said.
