The Tasmanian Government is providing funding for upgrades and expansions of the state’s women’s shelters.
Guy Barnett, Minister for State Development, Construction and Housing said the government’s increasing assistance for women and their children affected by family violence is an initiative under Tasmania’s Affordable Housing Action Plan 2019-2023.
The Launceston Women’s Shelter now has an additional 15 self-contained one, two, and three-bedroom units and associated facilities, including a multi-purpose centre, laundries and a children’s playground.
This expansion will more than double the shelter’s capacity to help women and children affected by family violence.
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“The Launceston Women’s Shelter, known as Magnolia Place, has been operating since 1975 to provide short-term crisis accommodation for women and their children who are escaping family violence or experiencing homelessness,” said Minister Barnett.
“I want to thank the CEO Jenny Bertram and her team of committed shelter staff for the support, comfort and safety they provide so many women and children each day.
“I know Ms Bertram has had a long-term vision to expand Magnolia House and it is extremely gratifying that through Homes Tasmania, we have been able to help achieve this ambition.”
The Tasmanian Government provided $4 million to fund this expansion and the Australian Government provided $1.9 million through the Safe Places Grant Program, which provides funding for new or expanded crisis accommodation for women and children experiencing family violence.
Through Homes Tasmania, the Tasmanian and Australian Governments have contributed to three projects aimed at increasing the supply of homelessness accommodation for women and children including the expansion of Magnolia House.
Jireh House was able to expand its capacity with two additional three-bedroom homes in southern Tasmania and the Salvation Army is constructing six additional units at McCombe House.
More than $36 million per year is invested in specialist homelessness services across the state, including women’s shelters.
Women in Tasmania can access a range of additional housing options including new social housing, supported accommodation, homeless accommodation and Family Violence Rapid Rehousing.
If you are at risk of homelessness, please contact Housing Connect, 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 800 588.