New Productivity Commission Data shows Tasmania continues to lag the nation in delivering public and social housing for those in need.
The Report on Government Services, released today, shows nearly half of “greatest need households” are waiting over two years for public housing – a figure behind only the Northern Territory.
Tasmania is also taking more than twice as long as the national average to house new applicants for social housing, with the average application taking 20 months (national average 9 months).
Vica Bayley MP:
“These figures are another indictment on the Rockliff Government and reflect a complete lack of prioritisation of housing and the thousands of Tasmanians who can’t find a home.
“The Liberals have been in government for a decade, and despite two urgent housing summits, they’ve helped create a dire and long-lasting housing crisis that is worsening. On their watch Tasmania has had the fastest growing homeless population in the country, a housing waitlist that’s more than doubled, and extensive loss of rentals to short stay accommodation.
“Even now, after years of cries for help from struggling Tasmanians and urgent solutions laid out by advocates, we’re seeing new statistics that show just how little Liberal politicians care for people in need. Instead their priority is building a billion-dollar stadium in Hobart. It’s shameful”.
Senator Nick McKim:
“Tens of thousands of Tasmanians are struggling to find a home, can’t afford their rent, or are being pushed into homelessness in record numbers. This is a disaster, and it’s been made worse by years of inaction from both major parties.
“The Greens have fought to make housing a national priority, forcing real action in Parliament and winning important gains along the way. This is despite Liberal and Labor doing everything they can to protect investors and big developers.
“With a Federal Election just around the corner, we’re going to make sure housing is front and centre. Tasmanians deserve a government that will actually tackle this crisis, not just make excuses for it.
“The housing crisis in Tasmania is dire, but ambitious action from government can turn things around and make a difference for tens of thousands of people. That’s what the Greens are fighting for – and we know it’s possible.”
