A Rebecca White Labor Government will ensure veterans have a place to call home, by building 21 affordable houses with wrap around services to support veterans and their families.
In partnership with RSL Tasmania, a Labor government would provide grant funding of $6,450,000 to build furnished, affordable homes with closely located community amenities on RSL land.
The 21 properties will be provided at low rent to the veterans and their families for a two year lease at a time. During that time, case coordination will be provided to access services or navigate the housing market.
Tasmania has the highest number of veterans per capita in Australia and veteran homelessness is nearly three times higher than the broader population.
Research projects by RSL Tasmania and the University of Tasmania highlight significant gaps in the well-being of Veterans. Notably, 40% have experienced trauma during service, 55% suffer from mental illnesses, and 39% live with ongoing disabilities.
Shadow Minister for Veterans Affairs Jen Butler said the next Tasmanian Government needs to do better for the people who have fought for our freedom.
“We are proud to partner with RSL Tasmania to build more 21 homes for Tasmanian veterans, supported by comprehensive wrap around services, including social and wellbeing services.,” Ms Butler said.
“This policy is a no-brainer. For too long, the men and women who have fought for Australia, have been marginalised and left unsupported when they return home.
“Australia is the best country in the world, but we need to do better when it comes to providing support for veterans in Tasmania.”
Shadow Minister for Housing Ella Haddad said the commitment formed part of Labor’s ambitious housing agenda.
“After 10 years of the Liberals, Labor is serious about fixing housing in Tasmania,” Ms Haddad said.
“This housing policy is in addition to Labor’s suite of housing policies, including zero deposits for first time home buyers, our plan to build 2,000 new apartments, open up more land for development, and encourage the construction of 1,000 new dedicated rental properties, all while continuing the government’s commitment to building 10,000 new social and government houses by 2032.”