Roger Jaensch, Minister for Housing and Liberal Member for Braddon
The Tasmanian Liberal Government has a clear road map to guide the state through the COVID-19 pandemic and to economic and social recovery and rebuilding.
We responded quickly and implemented an unprecedented range of measures to support our community and businesses with initiatives across the state through our Social and Economic Support Packages, totalling over $1 billion.
We are now planning for the most aggressive construction program in Tasmania’s history, which will include projects like affordable housing, upgrades on schools and Government buildings.
Treasury is currently reviewing the State’s $3.7 billion infrastructure program to identify projects that can be brought forward, or commenced swiftly right across the State including the North-West.
During this time of recovery and rebuild we will also be backing business to do what they do best – investing, innovating, and most importantly employing their fellow Tasmanians.
We will focus on our strengths in sectors that underpin our economy including, construction, agriculture, our visitor economy, aquaculture, renewable energy, skills and education, as well as trade.
At the same time we are boosting the supply of affordable housing which is critical to not only ensure Tasmanians have safe and secure accommodation, but also to stimulate our economy and support our vital building and construction sector.
That’s why our Affordable Housing Action plan is so important and we are committed to delivering it in full, with approximately 250 homes currently under construction.
Priority projects which have already been brought forward include two new youth foyers in Burnie and Hobart, the expansion of Thyne House in Launceston, and the construction of transitional units as part of a Youth at Risk project in Launceston.
Community Housing Grants worth $34 million will also deliver 300 new homes over the next few years.
These measures will complement our other initiatives to support vulnerable Tasmanians, including our $4.3 million support package to expand housing and homelessness support services across the state.
