There is no doubt that homelessness, particularly for our young people, is a complex problem.
That’s why the Hodgman Liberal Government is investing in services and accommodation options that address unmet demand, as well as measures to help prevent future youth homelessness.
We are listening to young people and what they need and taking action to improve their lives.
Our Affordable Housing Strategy and Action Plan includes a range of actions targeted at young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in each region of the state.
In the last three months alone, we have opened a 9-unit youth at risk facility in Moonah and a 25-unit youth supported accommodation facility in Devonport.
We are also finalising contracts for the delivery of 20 backyard units designed to provide options for young people who need to move out of home and who may otherwise become homeless, and have delivered on our commitment to bring 78 new housing units online across the State by June.
In 2018-19 our investment in affordable housing will more than double the previous year and our long term plan will provide an additional 1500 new affordable homes for Tasmanians.
The Tasmanian Government is committed to improving the outcomes for all young people at risk in Tasmania. Youth at risk require collaborative intervention across government and non-government service sectors in order to identify risk and intervene earlier in the lives of vulnerable young people. That why this year’s budget included additional funding for our Youth at Risk Strategy, including individualised case management.
And, we are extending out-of-home care up to the age of 21, to support young people who are transitioning from out of Home Care when they are ready to do so, not just because they turn 18.
However, we know there is still a lot more to be done and we will continue do everything possible to ensure every Tasmanian has a roof over their head, especially our young people.
It highlights the difference between a strong majority Liberal Government that is taking action to address this issue, and a policy-free Labor that can only complain from the sidelines.