The Tasmanian Liberal Government is committed to improving outcomes for all young people at risk in Tasmania.
A new Youth At Risk Centre is nearing completion in Launceston to provide accommodation for young people aged 12 to 15 who are homeless, or who are at risk of homelessness.
This new facility will provide a safe and supportive environment, with care tailored to the residents' specific needs and access to a range of social and therapeutic services to help them stay connected to support networks and education.
As we mark World Homeless Day today, it is important to remember that homelessness doesn't discriminate.
Our young people can be particularly vulnerable as they move towards adulthood and independence and our Government is committed to supporting them as they find their place in our community.
A central Launceston property was purchased specifically for this facility which will provide eight residential single-bedroom units, common use and recreational areas for residents, and on-site staff amenities.
The centre will be managed by Youth, Family and Community Connections (YFCC), a not-for-profit community organisation that provides a range of services to young people, families and individuals across the North-West and West coast.
YFCC helps stabilise children in crisis and provides support to engage with education, develop living skills, facilitate community connections and reunifies families wherever possible.
RTC Constructions completed the $2.3 million refurbishment with the design development by X-squared Architects. Construction was completed at the end of September and the service will begin operation soon.
An existing Youth At Risk Centre at Colville Place in Moonah, is managed by Colony 47 and has been operating since 2018.
Our Government is committed to tackling the housing struggles facing Tasmanians and has an ambitious $1.5 billion housing package to deliver 10,000 new social and affordable homes and units by 2032.
Current projects we are delivering to tackle homelessness include:
- A new 26-bed Youth2Independence facility in Hobart, a new 25-bed Youth2Independence facility in Burnie and a 20-bed expansion of the Launceston Youth2Independence facility;
- 23 crisis and transitional units for at-risk youth in Burnie;
- 15 new units at the Launceston Women's Shelter;
- A dedicated men's shelter on the North-West Coast for men with or without children; and
- A new 50-bed crisis and transitional accommodation facility for men in Hobart.
But we know there are Tasmanians who are doing it tough today and need our support right now.
That is why we invest over $36 million a year on wraparound services to ensure those who need help now are getting the services they need.
This includes funding for 17 Specialist Homelessness Services as well as crisis shelters and supported accommodation.
In addition, $6.9 million is allocated specifically for our Safe Spaces and connected support services.
We encourage anyone who is homeless or is at risk of homelessness to contact Housing Connect, 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 800 588.
