Premier Mark McGowan has said despite recent unrest at Yongah Hill Detention Centre it provides benefits to the Northam community.
Talking to the Avon Valley and Wheatbelt Advocate Mr McGowan said the location of the detention centre is not a concern.
“There were some incidents,” he said.
“You’ve also got to remember that it provides some employment locally.
“I suspect opinion is divided but it is an existing facility.
“I’m not going to advocate for it to move.
“At the end of the day it is a decision for the Commonwealth Government.”
The comments follow a disturbance at the detention centre in September sparked by an inmate being taken to hospital with self-harm injuries.
The fire that caused an estimated $500,000 damage to accommodation units.
The male detainee later died in hospital.
Shire of Northam President Chris Antonio said he was impressed with the actions of first responders.
“Their actions, as volunteers, on Father’s Day, is to be commended,” he said.
“Regardless of the circumstances, these volunteers attended and made the Shire proud.
“We will continue to remain in contact with the Yongah Hill authorities, who have advised that should any incident occur, the Shire of Northam will be contacted as soon as practically possible.
“The safety of all residents and ratepayers is, and should remain, a high priority.”
A spokesperson from the Australian Border Force said the buildings and services damaged during the incident have since been repaired or replaced.
They said the majority of accommodation is now operation with the remainder on schedule to be operation in the coming weeks.
Some detainees remain accommodated at other centres.
