The Tasmanian Government's affordable housing strategy

Yesterday the Minister for Human Services Jacquie Petrusma announced that more than 120 new homes will be delivered for Tasmanian families in need under a major initiative of the StateGovernment’s Affordable Housing Action Plan.

The Community Housing Stock Leverage Program will transfer the titles of around 500 public housing properties to allow community housing providers to borrow against their value to build additional homes Importantly, despite having their title transferred, these 500 homes will remain available for community housing, tenants will not be evicted; houses will not be sold out from underneath them.

With almost 3000 Tasmanians on the waiting list for public housing in the state. The SalvationArmy with government support is willing to assist in meeting the urgent demand for more affordable housing stock. The transfer of some public housing properties will enable community housing providers to borrow against the equity in these assets to help to fund new home construction, thereby increasing the supply of affordable housing in Tasmania.

The Tasmanian Government’s Affordable Housing Strategy allows for public housing title transfer with strict regulatory caveats, and will ensure community housing providers are able to progress the development of more affordable housing in Tasmania. The important work being undertaken by the community housing sector and the ongoing effort to ensure the needs of the vulnerable in our community are met through this initiative, which is deserving of opposition and community support. 

For further information or media comment please contact:
Mark Foyle - Public Relations Secretary The Salvation Army Tasmania
Tel: 03 6228 8400 | Mob: 0407 873 177
The Salvation Army Divisional Headquarters Tasmania, 27 Pirie St New Town TAS 7008