Advisory Center for Affordable Settlements & Housing

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Document Type General
Publish Date 06/03/2019
Author Callum Hutchinson & Meleisa Hutchinson
Published By Department of Communities Tasmania
Edited By Suneela Farooqi
Uncategorized

Tasmania’s Affordable Housing Action Plan 2019-2023

Tasmania’s Affordable Housing Action Plan 2019-2023

Introduction

Affordable housing is a cornerstone of social and economic stability, providing individuals and families with the security they need to thrive. In Tasmania, the issue of housing affordability has become increasingly pressing, with many households struggling to find safe and stable accommodation. Recognizing this challenge, the Tasmanian Liberal Government has made significant strides in addressing homelessness and housing stress through its comprehensive Affordable Housing Strategy 2015-2025. This strategy, now in its second stage, represents a robust commitment to ensuring that all Tasmanians have access to affordable housing options. By investing in the construction of new homes, releasing land near essential services, and providing targeted support to vulnerable groups, the government is working tirelessly to create a more equitable housing landscape. This article explores the key initiatives and achievements of the Affordable Housing Strategy, highlighting its impact on the lives of thousands of Tasmanians.

Affordable Housing Action Plan of Tasmania

The Foundation of the Affordable Housing Strategy

The Affordable Housing Strategy 2015-2025 was launched as a ten-year plan to address the growing need for affordable housing in Tasmania. The strategy builds on the government’s ongoing efforts to support those in need, including the provision of subsidized social housing and assistance with private rentals. Currently, around 12,000 households in Tasmania benefit from subsidized social housing, while an average of 200 households each month receive support through the Private Rental Assistance program. These initiatives have provided a lifeline for many families, but the demand for affordable housing continues to outpace supply. In response, the government has significantly increased its investment in affordable housing, particularly during the second stage of the strategy.

The second stage of the strategy, known as the Affordable Housing Action Plan 2019-2023 (Action Plan 2), outlines the government’s priorities for the next four years. This phase focuses on three key areas: constructing more affordable homes, releasing land close to services and employment, and providing supported accommodation for targeted groups. By addressing these priorities, the government aims to ensure that Tasmanians have better access to the housing and support they need to lead stable and fulfilling lives.

Building More Affordable Homes

One of the central pillars of the Affordable Housing Strategy is the construction of new affordable homes. The government has committed to delivering an additional 1,500 new affordable lots and homes during the second stage of the strategy. This ambitious target builds on the progress made during the first stage, which saw the construction of 900 affordable homes. By the end of the second stage, the total number of new affordable homes will reach 2,400, providing housing for thousands of Tasmanians.

The construction of new homes is complemented by efforts to release land in areas close to essential services and employment opportunities. This approach not only makes housing more affordable but also ensures that residents have access to the resources they need to improve their quality of life. By strategically locating new developments, the government is working to create vibrant, inclusive communities where people can live, work, and thrive.

Supporting Vulnerable Groups

In addition to increasing the supply of affordable housing, the Affordable Housing Strategy places a strong emphasis on providing supported accommodation for targeted groups. These groups include individuals and families experiencing homelessness, people with disabilities, and those facing other forms of disadvantage. By offering tailored support services, the government aims to address the unique challenges faced by these groups and help them achieve long-term housing stability.

The development of the Affordable Housing Action Plan 2019-2023 involved extensive consultation with stakeholders, including participants at the Housing Summit and regional roundtables. This collaborative approach ensured that the plan reflects the diverse needs of Tasmanians and incorporated key themes identified during these discussions. As a result, the plan is designed to remain flexible, allowing the government to respond to emerging opportunities and challenges as they arise.

A Significant Investment in Affordable Housing

The Tasmanian Liberal Government’s commitment to affordable housing is underscored by its substantial financial investment in the strategy. Over the course of the eight-year strategy, the government will have invested almost $200 million in affordable housing initiatives. This funding has enabled the construction of new homes, the provision of rental assistance, and the delivery of support services to vulnerable groups.

The second stage of the strategy alone will assist around 2,000 households, bringing the total number of households supported to 3,600. This represents a significant increase in the number of Tasmanians benefiting from affordable housing programs, demonstrating the government’s dedication to reducing homelessness and housing stress across the state.

Conclusion

The Tasmanian Liberal Government’s Affordable Housing Strategy 2015-2025 is a testament to its commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive housing system. By focusing on the construction of new homes, the release of strategically located land, and the provision of supported accommodation for vulnerable groups, the government is making meaningful progress in addressing the housing needs of Tasmanians. The significant investment in affordable housing reflects a recognition of the critical role that stable housing plays in fostering social and economic well-being. As the strategy enters its second stage, the government remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that all Tasmanians have access to safe, affordable, and secure housing. Through continued collaboration and innovation, the Affordable Housing Strategy will serve as a model for other regions seeking to tackle the challenges of homelessness and housing stress.

 

For further reading:
Action Plan 2023-27 | Housing Strategy
The Housing Connect Reform has commenced as part of …

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