Number: D36/2021
Date: 13 October 2021
Relevant: Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Topic: Cocos doctor accommodation
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications (the Department) and the Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands are pleased to confirm arrangements have been finalised for the ongoing housing of the Cocos doctor on Home Island.
Following lease changes earlier this year affecting Government House on West Island and House 100 on Home Island, the Department and Shire have been working together to resolve the matter of permanent accommodation for the doctor, noting the Home Island community’s preference for this to be on Home Island.
We are pleased to advise that the Shire, as the trustee for land and buildings on Home Island, will make House 100 available to the Department for housing the doctor, with the arrangement to commence in October 2021.
Until then, the doctor will continue to reside in temporary housing on Home Island, reaffirming the Australian Government ongoing commitment to the provision of quality health services to all local residents.
Aaron O’Neill
Assistant Secretary, Indian Ocean Territories Branch
Cr Aindil Minkom
Shire President, Shire of Cocos (Keeling) Islands