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 the state.
“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,” said Minister for Housing, Roger Jaensch.
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 being undertaken to alleviate homelessness right around the State, including:
- 18 temporary accommodation units for homeless men at Bethlehem House;
- 10 two-bedroom accommodation pods at the Hobart Women’s Shelter;
- 7 additional family sized units to be managed by the Hobart Women’s Shelter;
- Partnering with with Hobart City Mission to provide 31 supported accommodation units at the former Balmoral Motor Inn; and
- Expansion of Thyne House and Magnolia Place in Launceston, a new men’s shelter in Devonport and new youth foyers in Burnie and Hobart.
“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 Minister said.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
