Thousands of people in desperate need of real solutions to Tasmania’s homelessness crisis have again been let down by the Hodgman Minority Government.
Shadow Minister for Housing, Alison Standen, said in the past 18 months there have two homelessness crisis meetings but very little action on the issue, showing just how out of touch the government has become.
“We’ve had the Minister callously tell families facing homelessness to call a 1800 number,” Ms Standen said.
“After a couple of crisis meetings with little to show for them, Minister Jaensch is now planning a homelessness expo months after winter has finished.
“There are 3,300 people on the public housing waiting list and rental affordability is the worst in the country,
“On any given night, 1,600 Tasmanians are homeless and many other families are couch surfing, relying on their friends and families or living in sheds, cars or tents.”
Member for Braddon, Anita Dow, said housing stress and homelessness is not just an issue in Hobart.
“The government needs to get serious about supporting all Tasmanian’s no matter where they live as housing stress continues to get worse around the state,” Ms Dow said.
“The Minister has announced crisis accommodation in the Greater Hobart area, but has failed to detail a work plan or timeframe for delivery including what additional services will be available state-wide,
“Families in Devonport and George Town deserve support just as much as those in Hobart. Housing Ends Homelessness Expos should also be held in the North and North West in October to ensure all Tasmanian’s experiencing housing stress are connected to the help they need when they need it.”
Alison Standen MP
Shadow Minister for Housing
Anita Dow MP
Member for Braddon
