The MAC Group wins Karratha contract

The state government has selected Sydney-based The MAC Services Group as the preferred proponent to build and manage a 1,180-bed workers accommodation facility at Gap Ridge, Karratha.

Regional Development and Lands Minister Brendon Grylls said the accommodation would help meet the high demand for housing for people moving into the town to work on the many new projects going ahead in the area.

Mr Grylls said The MAC had submitted a proposal to provide Karratha with a 1,180-bed accommodation camp with facilities including a pool, gym and outdoor social areas. The facility will be built on a 12 hectare land area.

"The proposal is for a modern design that will provide an attractive option for workers' accommodation in Karratha," he said.

"The village lay-out will consist of high-class, environmentally sustainable apartments that will pass the test of time.

"The MAC has a successful track record in building and managing accommodation facilities, currently managing six accommodation sites with approximately 5,000 beds and associated facilities in remote areas of Australia.

"It is proposed to carry out the project in four stages, with Stage 1 delivering 200 beds, which will help ease the immediate demand for accommodation in Karratha."

The Department of Regional Development and Lands called for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the project late last year. Eight companies submitted proposals to build and manage the accommodation facility.

The minister said Karratha was destined for substantial development and short-term worker accommodation was urgently needed. The high demand for quality accommodation often made it difficult for people to secure a place to live.

"Karratha is a thriving town at the centre of the State's iron ore and gas industries. Demand for accommodation is high, especially for construction personnel working on projects to deliver land, housing and other facilities in the town," he said.

"As detailed in the EOI criteria, 30 per cent of the accommodation at Gap Ridge will be for these construction workers."

The state government will now begin negotiations with The MAC Group, with a contract expected to be finalised in the next month.