Council buys land for $1, but what's the catch?
The City of Greater Geraldton has acquired 8.8 hectares of land from the state government for just $1 to develop 140 key worker dwellings. This move reflects a shift in local government responsibilities, as councils are increasingly addressing housing issues traditionally managed by the state. The council plans to discuss the project further, with some concerns about the financial implications of the development.
- ▪The land transfer is part of a plan to create housing for essential workers in Geraldton.
- ▪The state government previously invested $8.7 million for headworks on the land, but the city must cover an additional $2.3 million.
- ▪Local councils are evolving to meet community demands, taking on responsibilities beyond traditional roles.
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Councils responsible for more than 'rates, roads and rubbish' as Geraldton LGA buys land from stateBy Piper DuffyABC Midwest & WheatbeltTopic:Local GovernmentWed 27 May 2026 at 3:32pmWed 27 May 2026 at 3:32pmWed 27 May 2026 at 3:32pmThe vacant block of land is just south of Geraldton's CBD. (ABC News: Chris Lewis)In short: The state government will transfer 8.8 hectares of vacant land to the City of Greater Geraldton for $1 to develop 140 key worker dwellings. WA shadow local government minister Kirrilee Warr says issues such as housing, typically concerns of the state, are falling on councils.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).