A total of 35 new units for elderly Tasmanians on the North West Coast were today opened in time for Christmas.
Launching the energy efficient development today on behalf of the Housing Minister Cassy O’Connor, Greens Member for Braddon Paul O’Halloran MP said the new units provided affordable accommodation to elderly residents of Sheffield, Ulverstone and Wynyard.
“These are quality, affordable homes designed to allow older people to continue living near family and friends, in familiar surrounds,” Mr O’Halloran said.
“It can be extremely beneficial for people who have lived in small, tight- knit communities to remain close to their support networks as they enter old age.”
“Being close by to family and friends can be so important for the happiness and wellbeing of elderly people, particularly at times like Christmas.”
“There are also genuine benefits to regional economies from assisting elderly people to continue living comfortably in their local area.”
“It’s great to see the State Government and the community sector working together to build top quality, affordable and energy efficient homes.”
Mr O’Halloran said the units have been built with funds from the State Government’s North West Land Release project.
The project has delivered land and funds with a combined value of $2 million to three non-government housing organisations including Centacare Tasmania and Tandara Lodge.
In total Centacare has built 33 units in Ulverstone and Wynyard, and a further 12 units are being built at a second site in Ulverstone.
Tandara Lodge has developed a further two units in Sheffield, and six units were launched earlier this year at Yolla through Myrtle Park Retirement Homes.
The North West Land Release Project is funded by the Tasmanian Government Housing Fund and is part of the Government’s commitment to increasing affordable housing.
Paul O’Halloran MP Greens Member for Braddon
