TasCOSS welcomes the Federal Government’s investment of an additional $500 million to retrofit another 50,000 social housing properties with energy efficient, electric and solar upgrades and calls on the Tasmanian Government to match its investment.

Leaving poverty unchecked is a choice of government, let’s ask why, writes Adrienne Picone.

In the midst of a worsening affordability crisis, we have been delivered a Budget which prioritises investing in projects over investing in people. A Budget that prioritises $5.1 billion of investment in infrastructure, ahead of investments that support people into long term employment, provide safe and affordable homes for Tasmanians on low incomes, and reduce energy bills over the long term, is the wrong Budget and the wrong priority.

With acute housing stress becoming an all-too-familiar tale for a growing number of Tasmanians, Homelessness Week presents an opportunity to take action to significantly reduce instances of homelessness across the state.

A new report from Deloitte Access Economics reveals Tasmania’s low income homes could significantly reduce their average annual energy bills with an accelerated rollout of thermal efficiency upgrades and electrification and rooftop solar.

Revelations in yesterday’s Legislative Council Inquiry into Homes Tasmania that the Tasmanian Government is being less than transparent with their 10,000 social and affordable homes by 2032 target will be disheartening news to Tasmanians currently experiencing severe housing stress.

TasCOSS supports and believes the many victim survivors who bravely shared their stories of abuse throughout the Commission of Inquiry, including those who spoke of abuse experienced at the Ashley Youth Detention Centre.

The Tasmanian Government’s announcement of 12 month delay to the introduction of the universal, pre-commitment gaming card is disappointing and will result in more Tasmanians being harmed by gambling.