Published on Monday, 11 May 2026 at 5:42:01 PM

The Shire of Murray welcomes Minister Stephen Dawson’s announcement today that it will receive a $116,000 grant to continue services once delivered by the Community Resource Centre (CRC) for the 2026/27 financial year, with a view of this continuing permanently.

Shire of Murray President, Cr McLarty, said the news followed the Shire’s proactive efforts to retain continuity of services following the Murray House Resource Centre’s (MRHC) decision to cease operations on 30 June 2026.

“Following advocacy by the Shire, we are very pleased to confirm that the funding allocated for CRC services will now support the Shire of Murray to continue delivering these important community services locally,” said President McLarty.

Murray House Resource Centre advised the public on 7 April that it will conclude the CRC and Licencing Services from 30 June. At this time, the Shire approached Minister Stephen Dawson requesting the funding for the final year of the Pinjarra CRC contract. Minister Dawson today announced he supports the request the Shire put to him.

“This outcome ensures there will be no loss of services for our community and provides certainty that CRC services will continue to be available in Pinjarra beyond 30 June," added the Shire President. 

President McLarty also added that when the rolling five-year contract is out for tender between 2027 and 2032, the Shire will look to secure the services on this more permanent basis.

Shire of Murray CEO, Dean Unsworth explained that the Shire is now progressing to establish the necessary arrangements to ensure continuity of service.

"It is pleasing that the Shire has been able to reach agreement with the Department of Regional Development to continue the important services that Community Resource Centres offer and we thank the Minister for his support and quick decision making," said Mr Unsworth. 

"We are looking at the current operating model and will seek over time to potentially expand some of the services currently on available. This will offer a one-stop hub of community services here in Pinjarra, with the added benefit of the variety of services already provided by the Shire of Murray," added Mr Unsworth.

The Shire of Murray has also received approval from the Department of Transport to manage licencing services from 1 July 2026. The Shire will seek to further expand these services over time.

“Our goal is to ensure residents continue to have convenient access to these important services locally, with minimal disruption during the transition,” added Mr Unsworth. 

View the Minister's statement here

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