Kuku’nathi Services is one of 10 First Nations organisations selected to deliver free community laundry facilities, set to improve access to hygiene in Weipa, Napranum and Mapoon. Photo: Facebook (EMG Capability Partner).
Remote First Nations communities with limited access to reliable hygiene facilities are set to benefit from a new $11.4 million community laundry program.
Weipa, Napranum, Mapoon, Pormpuraaw and Laura will receive a share of the Remote Community Laundries Project fund alongside more than a dozen communities across Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.
Ten First Nations organisations were selected to deliver new or upgraded laundry facilities, which will provide free access to commercial-grade washing machines and dryers with clean, hot water and medicative detergents.
While delivery details and locations are still being finalised, Kuku’nathi Services, in partnership with Community Owned Enterprises (COE), has been named one of the successful grant applicants.
“Kuku’nathi Services’ Remote Community Laundries Project is designed to improve access to reliable laundry services for communities across the Western Cape region, including Napranum, Weipa and Mapoon,” COE innovation and growth manager Tina McGuffie said.
“The project was developed in response to challenges faced by many remote households, including limited access to fit-for-purpose washing and drying facilities, the cost of operating household appliances, and the impact these factors can have on health, wellbeing and day-to-day community participation.
“An important feature of the proposed model is its community-led approach. The project has been designed to incorporate guidance from local community representatives, elders and partner organisations to ensure it reflects local priorities and remains culturally appropriate.”
Ms McGuffie said the laundry project would also have a broader impact on the communities, including support for existing services and economic opportunities.
“The project aims to support improved household hygiene outcomes by providing access to commercial-scale washing and drying facilities, while also contributing to broader social outcomes such as school attendance, workforce participation and community wellbeing,” she said.
“It is intended to complement existing health and community initiatives by working alongside local councils, community organisations and health service providers.
“The project will also create local employment, training and skills development opportunities, helping build capability in the operation, maintenance and ongoing management of the service.”
Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said the laundries would help reduce irritants and infections which could lead to serious but preventable illnesses such as trachoma, acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease, adding that she was proud to support the delivery of practical solutions.
“Community laundries are a simple but powerful investment in the health and wellbeing of remote First Nations communities,” she said.
“Access to reliable laundry facilities helps reduce the spread of preventable diseases and supports healthier living environments for families.”
