The number of applicants on the Housing Register has dropped to its lowest level in 12 months, thanks to the Rockliff Liberal Government's record housing investment.
Homes Tasmania and its community housing partners completed a record 276 new social housing properties in June – 59 in the North-West, 76 in the North and 141 in the South.
As these properties progressively became available for rent, we have seen a significant drop in the size of the Housing Register, with the total number shrinking by 113 applicants to 4,485 at the end of July.
Minister for Housing and Construction, Nic Street, said he was pleased to announce these results during Homelessness Week to show the Government's housing plan is delivering for people in need.
"Increasing housing supply is critical to tackling homelessness, which is why we have a $1.5 billion housing plan for 10,000 social and affordable homes by 2032," he said.
"We recognise there has been considerable demand for housing in recent years and Tasmanians can be assured the Government is responding by delivering the most ambitious and comprehensive social and affordable housing program in the State's history."
Homes Tasmania has a further 987 long-term homes and units of supported or homeless accommodation in its construction pipeline, which will deliver more affordable homes and emergency housing for Tasmanians in need.
The MyHome Shared Equity program also had a very strong first year, helping 162 households into home ownership – 131 purchases of existing homes and 31 purchases of house and land packages.
In addition to more than 14,000 households already living in social housing, 3,308 households were assisted last financial year through social housing, Private Rental Assistance, Private Rental Incentives, Rapid Rehousing or into home ownership.
As of 30 June 2023, Tasmania's Affordable Housing Strategy had delivered a total of 3,472 new homes, lots of land and new units of supported or homeless accommodation.
"Our comprehensive Tasmanian Housing Strategy will provide a 20-year plan, outlining the priorities and actions across the whole housing market including delivering new social and affordable housing," Minister Street said.
"But, we know there is more work to do, and we recognise there are Tasmanians who are doing it tough and need support right now, which is why through Homes Tasmania we invest more than $38 million each year in specialist homelessness services."
There are 18 homeless shelters operating around the State that provide crisis, transitional and emergency accommodation for Tasmanians who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
In addition, $7 million in annual funding has been allocated specifically for our Safe Spaces and connected support services.
If you are at risk of homelessness, please contact Housing Connect, 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 800 588.
