Woomera buildings gifted to Indigenous communities

The facilities include accommodation units, toilet blocks, demountable classrooms, playground equipment and shade structures.

Immigration and Multicultural Affairs Minister Amanda Vanstone said the buildings – which have been kept as a contingency since April 2003 – were surplus to requirements.

"I wanted the buildings to go to a worthy cause. Indigenous communities will be able to put them to good use," Senator Vanstone said.

"The communities to which they will be allocated are yet to be finalised but we expect most will be moved to surrounding South Australian and Central Australian communities."

Indigenous Affairs Minister Mal Brough said the demountable buildings would support the implementation of the Central Australian Petrol Sniffing Strategy and special requirements in other locations. "The buildings have been inspected and could be used for staff and short term visitor accommodation, and classrooms depending on local requirements," Mr Brough said.

Senator Vanstone said the demountable units were generally in good condition and only required minor refurbishment. Transport costs, renewal of air-conditioning and re-siting would be covered by the Australian Government.

"Woomera IRPC is currently part of the detention contingency network. Its long term future is currently under consideration by the Government," Senator Vanstone said.