A year after the devastating fire at the Morley Market, many small business owners are still grappling with the aftermath of their losses.

While a few businesses have successfully relocated to new locations, others continue their search for suitable premises. The process of recovering financial losses through insurance has proven challenging for several owners.

The fire, which occurred last September, completely destroyed a shopping center in Perth’s north-east, leaving business owners heartbroken over what they had worked tirelessly to build. Mojgan Fakhar, former owner of Frida Tattoo Studio, expressed her anguish: “I dedicated seven years to my business, and in just one night, it was all gone. For weeks, I was in a state of shock; it was incredibly difficult.”

The Morley Market was home to over 20 family-operated stores and restaurants, all of which were affected by the fire. Some owners have managed to start anew in different locations, but many others are still searching for opportunities to rebuild. Mohammad Frahim, who operated Monte Carlo Hairstylists, shared his frustrations about the challenges of finding a new site. “Re-establishing my business is very difficult. Some people have found opportunities, but others, like me, are still struggling,” he remarked. “I’m actively looking for a new barber shop for sale, but options are scarce.”

Despite her efforts to continue her business, Ms. Fakhar has relocated to a smaller space nearby, which has not been without its challenges. “I’m trying to regain a sense of normalcy, but it’s not quite the same. I’ve rebuilt my studio, but it’s smaller and less equipped than before. I’m doing my best to create a welcoming environment for my clients,” she stated.

In a frustrating turn of events, the cause of the fire could not be identified due to the extensive damage, leaving many business owners with lingering questions. A report from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services highlighted a malfunctioning local alarm system that, if operational, might have allowed for earlier detection and containment of the fire.

Mina Eshan, whose Bella Skin Clinic suffered over $200,000 in damages, emphasized the need for answers, stating, “This situation isn’t just about financial compensation; it’s about preventing similar incidents in the future and ensuring the safety of others.”

Many business owners have faced difficulties with insurance claims, with some regretting not securing contents protection. “Not having contents insurance was my biggest mistake,” Mr. Frahim admitted. “I had public liability coverage, but it didn’t cover the contents of my shop. I’ve called the insurance company multiple times, but I’ve yet to receive a response.”

Mr. Frahim also voiced the urgent need for government assistance for those who lost everything in the fire. “The government should take action to support shopkeepers who were uninsured and have lost their businesses,” he said.

The City of Bayswater has stated that it has provided support to the affected businesses. Mayor Filomena Piffaretti noted that the city established a recovery hub at Morley Library, collaborating with various agencies to offer support and advice to impacted business owners, employees, and customers. “We have also made space available for appointments between service providers and affected business owners,” she added.

Currently, the site of the former Morley Market remains vacant and fenced off, with no redevelopment applications submitted as of yet. Meanwhile, a significant upgrade of the Morley Galleria shopping center across the street is actively underway.