Noongar Artists to Infuse Culture into Perth's $23 Million Aboriginal Short Stay Project
Two acclaimed Noongar artists have been commissioned to transform the Perth Aboriginal Short Stay project, as the State Government advances this $23 million initiative designed to reduce homelessness among Aboriginal people travelling to the city. The 100-bed building, scheduled for completion in 2027, will offer safe, culturally appropriate, and affordable short-term accommodation for Indigenous individuals from remote and regional Western Australia who need to access essential services or are visiting for business, cultural, or family purposes.
Artistic Contributions to Enhance Cultural Identity
Ilona McGuire, a Bibbulmun Noongar and Kungarakan interdisciplinary artist renowned for her immersive light shows at events like the Fremantle Biennale, will lead the transformation of the building's foyer. She will be joined by Zali Morgan, a Whadjuk Balladong and Wilman Noongar artist who previously served as a guest curator for the 2023 NAIDOC Exhibition at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. Morgan, who won the City of South Perth's emerging artist open award in 2023 for her depiction of the Old Swan Brewery, will create an interpretation map within the foyer and install artworks across the windows and front entry screen.
Government Support and Broader Housing Initiatives
Housing and Works Minister John Carey emphasized that the project provides vital support for Aboriginal visitors to Perth while showcasing culture. "The Perth Aboriginal Short Stay will support Aboriginal people travelling from remote and regional Western Australia to Perth and will help to avoid people sleeping rough in the city," he stated. "These works will add to the life and vibrancy of the short stay, while also displaying and celebrating Aboriginal culture, and I look forward to seeing the work the two artists produce." Carey noted that this initiative is part of the government's record $6.3 billion in housing measures since 2021, which includes delivering over 3900 new social homes, two common ground facilities, and additional Aboriginal short stays in regional Western Australia.
Local Perspectives and Project Milestones
Cannington MLA Ron Sao highlighted the artist appointments as a key milestone for the project. "I'm excited to see the work Ilona McGuire and Zali Morgan will produce, which will add vibrancy to this project and celebrate Aboriginal culture," he said. "The Perth Aboriginal Short Stay will be a managed facility for people who may be sleeping rough or staying with family when travelling to the city for medical or cultural reasons. The appointment of these two artists is another important milestone in the delivery of this important project." The project, which began in late 2025, aims to address critical housing needs while fostering cultural pride and community engagement through artistic expression.
