Another boost for building jobs and Housing Solutions for Young People
Premier Will Hodgman and Minister for Housing, Roger Jaensch have today announced that a Cambridge-based business is the successful tenderer who will construct new housing solutions for young people at risk of homelessness.
Podmatrix will oversee the initial construction of eight demountable units which will provide housing options for young people as part of the Tasmanian Government’s Affordable Housing Action Plan 2015-2019.
Podmatrix is a Tasmanian owned company established in 2017, directly employing 39 Tasmanians. The company is considered one of the largest Tasmanian suppliers of modular, relocatable homes with production facilities in Cambridge and Devonport.
Premier Will Hodgman said that the tender will give Podmatrix the opportunity to continue to build their business around the state.
"Our building and construction industry is booming, with an all-time high 23,200 people now working in the industry. Podmatrix is a great example of a business employing significant numbers of Tasmanians who are benefiting from the growth and confident outlook in the sector.
"We are very pleased that this project, which is part of our Affordable Housing Action Plan 2015-2019, will not only benefit young people by providing new housing options but will also help to provide jobs for young Tasmanians."
Minister for Housing, Roger Jaensch, said the units would provide young people with an innovative new housing option.
"The Backyard Units for Young People is a pilot project targeted at 15-26 year olds, and aims to deliver demountable units that provide a secure, independent living arrangement for young people," Minister Jaensch said.
"These high quality units will give teens and young adults their own space, while maintaining a strong connection with their family as they build their independent living skills.
"The units come in a range of forms, including a mix of studio, one and two bedroom units, and a fully accessible disabled persons unit".
"This initiative will target vulnerable young people and families that need that extra support to keep the family together and prevent young people from leaving home and possibly becoming homeless ."
The Tasmanian Liberal Government is on track to deliver 40 demountable units Statewide by 30 June 2020, at a cost of $5.6 million.
This is just one part of our Affordable Housing Strategy, of which Stage is on track to assist over 1600 households by June 2019, including the supply of 941 new affordable lots and homes. Stage Two of the strategy will see the Government invest an additional $125 million over five years to assist more Tasmanians into homes.
