A devastating new report from Impact Economics and Policy shows hundreds of Tasmanian women are becoming homeless because of a lack of suitable housing. More than half of these women, many with children, have been forced to return to a violent partner to have a roof over their heads.
The report, commissioned by Shelter Tasmania and Hobart Women’s Shelter, found women had a greater need for long-term housing, but were less likely to have that need met. The report also showed that women with children had a need for larger homes and are waiting months longer than those without children, forcing them to choose between homelessness and staying in violent relationships to provide shelter for their children.
Providing more social and affordable housing is a vital part of addressing this crisis, but more importantly is ensuring that the right types of homes are built.
The current approach to new housing, both federally and across the states, is to deliver small, one- or two-bedroom homes. Women with children fleeing violent partners typically require larger, three- and four-bedroom homes and it’s vital this is not lost in the rush to deliver more homes.
This reporting follows on from reports last week demonstrating the disproportionate rate at which young Tasmanian women are experiencing family and intimate partner violence.
The solution to the housing crisis facing women lies in both ensuring adequate housing stock suitable to women and children is available, alongside increased education to prevent family violence occurring targeted at young people across the state.
Quotes attributed to Vica Bayley MP, Greens Member for Clark and Greens Housing spokesperson.
“We know that housing shortages are having a devastating impact on many Tasmanians, and this report highlights the additional housing challenges facing women fleeing domestic violence.
“Women with children fleeing these violent circumstances need urgent availability of specialised accommodation that Tasmania is failing to prioritise.
“The government needs to ensure that its housing strategy focuses on more than just delivering a specific number of homes, but also on the types of homes delivered and their suitability to those facing homelessness, including women with children fleeing violence in the home.
“The government should explicitly report on its plans and delivery of purpose-built homes to accommodate women and children escaping violent relationships.”
