Arabic version: إغلاق نزل الرحالة في بونبري بسبب انتهاكات سلامة الأسبستوس
Two popular backpacker hostels in Bunbury, Western Australia, have been ordered to close due to serious health and safety concerns related to asbestos exposure. The City of Bunbury issued formal closure notices on February 6 after identifying ongoing compliance issues at the establishments, which have not been addressed. According to ABC News, the affected hostels are the Wander Inn and the Dolphin Retreat, both of which catered to budget-conscious travelers and temporary workers.
The closure has left dozens of workers and visitors scrambling for accommodation in a region already facing a short-term housing crunch. The City of Bunbury’s spokesperson emphasized that the health risks posed by the asbestos and other compliance issues left them with no choice but to take this action. Both hostels declined to comment when approached by media representatives.
Local business leaders have expressed concern over the impact of these closures on the availability of accommodation for essential workers. Bunbury-Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Sean McKeown noted that the situation exacerbates existing housing challenges in the area. While the City of Bunbury acknowledged the difficulties caused by the closures, they reiterated the importance of ensuring public safety.
As the community grapples with the fallout from these closures, the City of Bunbury remains focused on addressing health risks and compliance issues in the region.
