New Tasmanian Eating Disorder Service facility officially opened in Launceston

A new Tasmanian Eating Disorder Service (TEDS) treatment centre, takara narakupa, has officially opened in Launceston, marking a major milestone in improving access to specialist eating disorder services.

Jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments, it is the first dedicated community-based treatment facility in Tasmania for supporting people living with eating disorders.

TEDS provides intensive treatment for people living with moderate to severe eating disorders, as well as support for their families and friends.

The service delivers coordinated care across the public, private and primary health sectors helping ensure people receive the right support when they need it.

TEDS focuses on providing safe, high-quality treatment and support that is person and family centred, recovery-oriented, and evidence-based.

The name takara narakupa, meaning ‘walking with kindness’ in palawa kani language, was chosen in collaboration with key Aboriginal community organisations.

Construction of the new facility was completed in December 2025 by local contractor Anstie Constructions, involving the refurbishment of two existing buildings at 416-418 Westbury Road.

The Australian Government provided $2.5 million to establish the TEDS facility in the North, as a part of a total $10 million investment through the Australian Government’s Community Health and Hospitals Program.

The Tasmanian Government has provided $915,000 to establish the new facility, in addition to ongoing operating investment.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing Bridget Archer: “Eating disorders are serious, complex, and potentially life-threatening, affecting not only the individual but also their family. It is important that these services are accessible within the community.

“The Tasmanian Eating Disorder Service (TEDS) is designed to enable Tasmanians experiencing eating disorders to access evidence-based treatment close to home while remaining connected to family, friends, education, and employment.

“The new, dedicated TEDS North facility is a key part of our plan to enhance access to specialist eating disorder services throughout the State.

“The TEDS team now deliver community based intensive programs across Tasmania with services in Hobart, Launceston, Devonport, and Burnie, bringing specialist care closer to local communities.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bass, Jess Teesdale: “The opening of the new Tasmanian Eating Disorder Service facility is a major step forward for Tasmanians living with eating disorders. This dedicated community based service will finally give people in the North access to specialised, evidence based care close to home.

“I’m proud the Australian Government has invested $2.5 million to help deliver this facility, known as takara narakupa -‘walking with kindness’ -which reflects the compassionate, person centred support it will provide for individuals and their families.”