Rottnest staff housing plan

An accommodation facility to house Rottnest Lodge staff has been proposed in a bid to increase housing supply during the peak season.

RLR Holdings, represented by Place Development Australia, proposes to build staff accommodation for up to 102 occupants on Parker Point Road, South Thomson, on Rottnest Island.

The proposed development comprises two site manager houses, 20 detached supervisor units, line staff accommodation for 60 occupants, and communal facilities.

The Rottnest Island Authority (RIA) will make its decision after a public consultation and assessment period.

The RIA website said it was anticipated the project would be delivered in two stages with the first being the construction of 40 rooms.

“Currently, staff housing availability on Rottnest Island is particularly constrained during the peak summer season and is under increasing pressure throughout the year,” it said.

“Island businesses, particularly the private accommodation operators and hospitality operators, need staff to live on island outside usual ferry times to service the facilities and amenities offered 24-7 as required for an iconic holiday destination.

“The development will provide staff housing for people working at The Lodge, due to open in late 2023.”

Public comment period for the proposed Rottnest Lodge staff accommodation is open until October 3.

The application for new staff housing comes as Place Development Australia pursues its plan to redevelop the lodge itself, to be known as The Lodge Wadjemup.

Peter Fogarty is a major investor in the redevelopment.

The RIA is assessing another staff accommodation for workers of Hotel Rottnest, Isola and Samphire Rottnest.

The Rottnest Society has opposed the proposal for accommodation of Samphire staff due to the impact of 1.35 hectares of vegetated bushland.

Up to 211 occupants are proposed to be housed at the new facility for Samphire workers.