National Homelessness Week

Today marks the start of National Homelessness Week, aimed at raising awareness right across Australia.

Minister for Housing and Planning, Felix Ellis said nothing is more important than ensuring all Tasmanians have a place to call home.

“The theme for Homelessness Week is “Homelessness Action Now”, which serves as a powerful reminder to address this important issue,” Minister Ellis said.

“Our hearts go out to all those Tasmanians who are doing it tough and experiencing homelessness.

“Homelessness is not a choice most people make for themselves and we are working hard to support the needs of people in those circumstances.

“This is a whole-of-community responsibility and we thank those who are doing what they can to bring more support to the lives of people experiencing homelessness.

“Under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, our Government is committed to supporting Tasmanians at risk of homelessness.

“We are investing a record $1.5 billion into housing, backed by the 20-year vision in our Tasmanian Housing Strategy, and our record commitment to deliver an additional 10,000 social and affordable homes by the end of 2032.

"The Tasmanian Government has delivered an additional 3,620 social and affordable homes since October 2020.

“This is a third of our target, in a third of the time, meaning we are on track to deliver on our commitment and provide these homes for Tasmanians in need.

“We are also investing more than $45 million annually to provide immediate assistance to those in need, including 20 homelessness shelters and three Safe Spaces across the State.

“We’re punching above our weight nationally when it comes to increases in social housing and we will continue to tackle all stages of the housing sector – from releasing land to delivering new crisis and homelessness accommodation.

“This includes giving women and their children access to many of the 20 homeless shelters in Tasmania and the 50 homes currently secured under the Family Violence Rapid Rehousing program, in addition to social housing and private rental assistance.  

“We are committed to working closely with Tasmanians who require support, and I urge anyone who is currently experiencing or at risk of homelessness to contact the Housing Connect service on 1800 800 588.”