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Commitment to tackling homelessness commended

Sat 11 August 2012

Lara Giddings

Premier

Cassy O'Connor

Minister for Human Services

The work of Tasmania's community sector in supporting some of the state's most disadvantaged has been commended at a ceremony to mark Homelessness Week in Hobart this morning.

The Premier, Lara Giddings, joined the Minister for Human Services, Cassy O'Connor, at this morning's event, organised by Centacare.

"Our community sector groups are at the coal face, working to support those Tasmanians who are doing it tough - and they are to be commended for their work in helping Tasmanians get that support," Ms Giddings said.

"Through our investment in affordable housing and supported accommodation we are working to help provide shelter and support for Tasmanians.

"The sale of TOTE Tasmania has also allowed us to support Tasmanians on low incomes through important investments like $1.5 million over 2011-13 for emergency relief and $1 million for the Food For All Tasmanians Grants program to increase access to healthy, safe and affordable food.

"We are committed to working with the community sector to tackle areas of disadvantage, whether it be in providing affordable housing or other forms of assistance."

The Minister for Human Services, Cassy O'Connor, said the Tasmanian Government was committed to finding permanent solutions for homelessness.

"Tackling homelessness is about more than just putting a roof over someone's head," she said.

"It's about helping people feel connected to their communities, to know their rights and be able to access the supports they need.

"Low income Tasmanians looking for a place to call home are the ultimate beneficiaries of the largest affordable housing construction effort in two generations, with 1,400 new homes built between the beginning of 2009 and the end of June this year.

"We have also established five supported accommodation facilities Statewide specifically for people who are on homeless or on low incomes."