In a first-of-its-kind agreement for Western Australia’s South West Native Title Settlement, the Yued Aboriginal Corporation, Parron Maam Marang Farm, and Perpetual as trustee for the Noongar Boodja Trust have partnered to develop a 300-bed workers’ accommodation facility for the Parron Maam Marang wind farm project.
The facility will be constructed in the town’s south-west by Atmos Renewables, owner of the Parron Maam Marang wind farm project, to house construction personnel.
Under the commercial arrangement, third-party development is enabled on Noongar Land Estate land while preserving full land ownership with the Noongar Boodja Trust.
In exchange for hosting the site, Yued Aboriginal Corporation secures an option to assume 100 per cent ownership of the facility upon completion of wind farm construction, projected for late 2028.
With a 10-year development approval granted by the Shire of Dandaragan, Yued Aboriginal Corporation will be positioned to lease the accommodation to other regional project proponents, establishing a long-term revenue stream for the community.
Atmos Renewables has also committed to local community infrastructure investments, including upgrading Badgingarra’s recreation centre and gym facilities.
Atmos Renewables CEO Nigel Baker described the deal as a practical model for genuine partnership, keeping economic benefits on Country while delivering essential facilities on schedule.
Yued Aboriginal Corporation Chairperson Sharna Meinertz said the team will focus on building internal capacity to manage the facility over the coming years, ensuring local First Peoples directly manage and profit from the asset.
Yued Aboriginal Corporation CEO Rewi Lyall added that as the global clean energy transition gains momentum, First Nations participation through creative ownership models is vital for achieving genuine economic empowerment.
“Globally, it is now recognised that the clean energy transition has to provide deeply significant opportunities for First Peoples to participate in this emerging economy,” Lyall said.
“Sometimes that may be through developing their own projects, or by obtaining equity with others.”