Plans for the construction of an all-encompassing Indigenous health hub are progressing despite the project not yet receiving state or federal funding.
The South West Aboriginal Medical Service and City of Bunbury have been working together to deliver a multi-faceted facility for those living in the region.
Last week council agreed to transfer city-owned land to SWAMS to develop the health campus.
Lot 4669 Forrest Avenue, Carey Park which is known as Jaycee Park will be transferred to SWAMS with the city agreeing to waive the development application fee of $34,196.
City of Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan said the health hub would be a welcomed addition to the region.
"We are pleased to be able to provide the land to SWAMS for their health precinct and council would like to acknowledge all the hard work they do as well as the excellent service they provide to the community," he said.
"By expanding their practice they will be able to do even more for their clients and make health care available and more accessible to those who need it."
SWAMS chief executive Lesley Nelson thanked council for prioritising Indegenous health.
"This is about looking at a one-stop health hub to bring all of our programs and services under the one roof, in the one location," she said.
"Strong local commitment and continuity are required to close the gap and that is why this purpose built, local facility is so important."
During planning for the new purpose-built hub, SWAMS has partnered with University of Technology Sydney, to ensure an innovative, cutting edge design which will deliver positive outcomes for clients.
The build will include clinical and research facilities, administrative offices, dedicated maternal and child health facility and an outdoor Indigenous park in the one location.
There will also be a fenced-off children's playground, landscaped gardens and new toilet facilities all open to the public.
Ms Nelson said they were still looking for funding partners and had sent the health hub plans out to a number of ministers.
"The total project will be around $28 million but if there is opportunities to undertake work at different stages that's what we'll do," she said.
"We're positive that it will happen, the first stage we'll be looking at is building the health and wellbeing community centre and the landscaping and the park.
"That will get us started and showcase to the local community that something is happening on the site that is exciting.
"We know it's important and this is part of trying to close the gap at a local level from the community - in terms of driving what they want to see here."
SWAMS will now submit the development application to the City for assessment.
Once it has been approved, construction is expected to be completed within 12 months.
For more information visit swams.com.au.
