The former Waratah Hotel in Hobart is now operational as a long-term supported accommodation facility, as part of the Tasmanian Government’s plan to increase the availability of supported accommodation in Tasmania.
The refurbishment has delivered a 24-unit facility for single men who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness and require supported accommodation, with the first tenants expected to be allocated before Christmas.
The site will be managed by Bethlehem House, with the Government committing $1.7 million to support its operation over the next three years.
It adds to other measures we are taking to alleviate homelessness right around the State, including:
The recent Budget also committed $16.8 million to continue the Safe Space program as a 24/7 wrap-around service in Burnie, Launceston and Hobart, ensuring that Tasmanians who are sleeping rough can access a safe overnight refuge, and the supports they need to access other health and housing services.
The Budget also locks in more than $300 million to deliver new housing and homelessness initiatives to help our most vulnerable, including $100 million to build up to 1000 new homes over three years, with an EOI currently underway.
We will continue to do all we can to help Tasmanians in need into safe and secure housing that meets their needs, right across the State.