On 9 November 2022, the Director of Tuart Place, Dr Philippa White, has provided an update on the campaign to ‘Save Tuart Place’.
The statement is as follows:
“In a heartening new development on 4 November 2022, representatives of Tuart Place met with Edmund Rice Community Services Ltd (ERCS) to negotiate ongoing tenancy at 24 High Street, Fremantle. ERCS has stepped forward as the registered proprietor of the property.
ERCS acknowledged the vital work carried out by Tuart Place, and the importance of continuing to offer support to survivors of institutional abuse in a place that is accessible, familiar, and safe.
Tuart Place and ERCS are working together to draft a set of principles that includes a two-year lease on the existing premises, with opportunities to explore longer term lease arrangements or purchase of the property.
While the details are yet to be finalised, the tenor of negotiations with ERCS gives us confidence that a final agreement satisfactory to both Tuart Place and ERCS will be signed, ensuring that the good work of Tuart Place at 24 High Street will continue.
We would like to thank ERCS for their offer to work collaboratively with Tuart Place to secure a beneficial outcome.
We also thank the many participants, colleagues, board members, staff, and community members who supported the Save Tuart Place campaign.
We extend special thanks to our three Patrons – Senator Dean Smith, former Senator Rachel Siewert, and respected Noongar Elder Dr Robert Isaacs OAM – along with prominent supporters Hon Simone McGurk MLA, Hon Dave Kelly MLA, Hon Katrina Stratton MLA, and Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge.”
I look forward to continuing to support the great work of Tuart Place whenever required.
14 November 2022