The sound of bingo balls pouring into a metal tumbler signals the start of an important social gathering for a group of retirees in Western Australia's north-west coast.
Helen Hall moved to the region 29 years ago for her husband's work. While he was working, their rent was covered by his employer. "I think I said something like, 'are you for real?' and then when it hit me, I just started crying," she said.Residents aged over 70 account for 1.5 per cent of the Pilbara's population, according to figures from the 2021 census.Across the Pilbara, there are three aged care facilities; located in Newman, Roebourne and South Hedland.
"So they've worked hard and put their money aside, but it's not going to benefit them up here so they've got to leave town."Member for Mining and Pastoral region Kyle McGinn said local MPs were often contacted about the lack of affordability when downsizing accommodation, to fit retirement. Mining and Pastoral Region MP Kyle McGinn is hoping to help create more sustainable rental options for retirees in the Pilbara.The Pilbara Development Commission is working with the state government, local stakeholders and the resources sector, to develop a retirement village and identify eligibility criteria, various ownership models and potential costs.
"Having a community-based style of living I think it's a real opportunity to keep our seniors active, keep them out there in the community and have a better end-of-life situation," he said.