The Tasmanian Liberal Government is increasing supported accommodation for young people, with works underway to expand Launceston’s Thyne House to a 50-unit facility.
VOS Construction and Joinery Pty Ltd (Vos) has been awarded the construction contract for the $8.9 million project and early site works have commenced with the installation of site sheds and temporary boundary fencing and minor demolition works progressing.
An additional 20 self-contained, one-bedroom residential units will be constructed with additional car parking and commercial floor space designed for a social enterprise.
Upgrades are also planned to the existing 30-unit facility that will provide a more functional reception area, living areas, laundries, storage areas and an additional overnight staff unit.
The Tasmanian Government’s investment will also deliver $25.23 million in total economic activity for the State, stimulating the economy, securing jobs and providing certainty to local businesses.
Vos currently employs 45 staff in Launceston and employs 10 apprentices within its Launceston operations.
Thyne House is a Youth2Independence (Y2I) facility, providing accommodation and support for young people to become independent by participating in education and training.
We are taking serious action on homelessness with a record investment of $615 million into social and affordable housing, and homelessness initiatives; including responding to identified demand for youth accommodation.
There are three facilities already successfully providing these services to young Tasmanians statewide and along with the expanded Thyne House facility, a facility in Burnie and a second facility in Hobart will also be delivered.
A Request for Grant Proposals (RFGP) to provide Tasmania’s Y2I program in Burnie and Hobart to suitably experienced non-government organisations will be advertised on Saturday.
The Thyne House expansion is due for completion in October next year.
Homelessness Week, held between 2-8 August, is one week a year that asks all of us to recognise the need to reduce and eliminate homelessness.
This year’s theme is ‘Housing ends homelessness’, and the Tasmanian Liberal Government is committed to continue working with our community and housing sector to ensure that more Tasmanians have a roof over their head.
If you are at risk of homelessness please contact Housing Connect, 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 800 588.
