Two South West Backpacker Hostels Forced to Close Over Asbestos Risks

Two South West Backpacker Hostels Forced to Close Over Asbestos Risks

The City of Bunbury has ordered the closure of two popular backpacker hostels due to serious health and safety concerns. The Wander Inn and Dolphin Retreat in Bunbury, located 170 kilometres south of Perth, have been identified as posing risks related to asbestos exposure and other compliance issues.

Dozens of workers and visitors are now scrambling for alternative accommodation as the region already faces a shortage of short-term housing. The closures were ordered following formal notices issued by the City of Bunbury on February 6 after they identified an urgent asbestos risk at one of the premises, which posed significant health and safety risks to residents.

Both hostels have declined to comment on the matter. A 'for sale' sign was placed in front of Dolphin Retreat, while guests at the Wander Inn were instructed to vacate by the end of the week.

This development has left local businesses, including the Bunbury-Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry, concerned about the impact on finding accommodation for staff. The closures are a result of non-compliance with health and safety standards, which cannot be tolerated to protect residents and workers from potential hazards.