Inter-governmental partnership helps house older women

Hailed by the Tasmanian Minister for Housing and Construction, Nic Street, as ‘a great example of the Tasmanian and Australian Governments and community organisations working together towards the common goal of ending homelessness’, a project to develop homes in Hobart for older women was launched in early December.

The new 38-unit development is located behind the St Vincent de Paul Society offices in Argyle Street, Hobart. It will provide homes for women who are priority applicants on the Housing Register and who are at risk of homelessness, with a particular focus on women aged 55 and over.

The $16.7 million project includes $13.36 million from the Albanese Labor Government’s Social Housing Accelerator funding for Tasmania, which will deliver more than 110 new social homes at a total cost of $50 million.

The development will be delivered by St Vincent de Paul Society and national community housing provider Amelie Housing, with oversight from Homes Tasmania. The site currently hosts a Vinnies charity shop and an emergency relief centre, as well as a warehouse. The retail shop and relief centre will be relocated during the works, so service can continue and will remain open to Tasmanians.

‘This new project goes to the heart of our government’s commitment to ensure more Australians have a safe and affordable place to call home,’ said Housing Minister and local federal MP, Julie Collins.

‘The women who will move into these homes in Hobart are in critical need of a safe home, which is why the announcement we are making today is so important.’

Tasmanian Senator Carol Brown said, ‘Having a home is life changing. It’s great to see Tasmanian women being able to make that dream a reality. This… demonstrates our commitment to supporting vulnerable women in Tasmania and across the country.’

Tasmanian Liberal Minister Nic Street said, ‘I was delighted today to visit the site of a new development by St Vincent de Paul and Amelie Housing that is being funded under the Australian Government’s Social Housing Accelerator program.’

Maguire + Devine Architects explained that the building is designed like a village, with communal green space on the rooftop where residents can enjoy open space, sunlight and views.

‘The lower floors are the neighbourhoods, with the front doors of each studio apartment gathered around a semi-enclosed vertical rainforest. On the outside, each studio opens to a private balcony for fresh air, sunshine and views.’

Work on the project is expected to begin in February 2024 and be completed by December 2025.

Read the Summer 2023 edition of The Record