Upgrades to teacher residences prioritised

The Tasmanian Liberal Government is ensuring we can continue to attract high-quality teaching staff to our regional and remote areas, with planning now underway for upgrades and priority works to 14 residences in Queenstown. 

As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we’ve committed $15 million to rebuild or upgrade teacher residences across Tasmania.

Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said our remote and regional areas can often face challenges when recruiting teachers. 

“We know there is a national shortage of teachers and Tasmania is not immune to this issue,” Minister Palmer said. 

“There are currently 132 residential properties for teachers across the State, many of which are not meeting the needs of our principals and teachers. 

“By providing modern, fit-for-purpose residences for our teachers, we can help ensure that we encourage educators to stay in our regional and remote areas long-term.”

The works to upgrade 14 residences in Queenstown are scheduled to begin over the leave period in late December this year. 

Our Teacher Residences Program will also see construction commence on up to 22 new residences progressively over the next six years, and these new residences will be located in our greatest demand areas, including the West Coast, Scottsdale, Smithton and Flinders Island.

The design and location of the new residences will be determined in consultation with schools and their staff, with the tender for the first tranche of new residences expected to be released in the second half of 2025.

The Government’s investment in rebuilding and upgrading teacher residences is in addition to the financial incentives already in place for teachers who commit to working in isolated schools including King Island District High School, Flinders Island District High School, Strahan Primary School and Zeehan Primary School.