Clear plan needed for housing refugees

Shelter Tasmania, the peak body for housing and homelessness services, has welcomed the plan for refugee settlement in Tasmania under the Federal Government’s Safe Haven Enterprise Visa Scheme, and calls for a clear plan and funding commitments for their housing.

“The importance of safe, affordable housing is critical for an effective response to this humanitarian crisis. More social housing will be needed in order provide a safe haven in Tasmania.” Shelter Tas Executive Officer Pattie Chugg said.

“All Tasmanians need housing that is affordable, appropriate and safe. Any successful settlement requires a co-ordinated effort that includes housing.” Ms Chugg said.

“There is currently a shortage of housing in Tasmania at the affordable end of the market. For instance, the waiting list for public housing was 2,759 in March 2015, and it is often difficult to house people on low incomes in the private rental market. Some Tasmanians already face homelessness, so here we have another reason to address the shortfall in supply of affordable housing,” Ms Chugg said.

“With the Tasmanian community’s good will, and the Government and community sector working together, we can address these challenges. Tasmanian generosity will also bring benefits from welcoming new people to our State.

“An increase in social housing must be part of the plan to bring about successful outcomes for refugees in Tasmania,” Ms Chugg said.
Pattie Chugg Executive Officer, Shelter Tasmania