The Hobart Women’s Shelter has unveiled newly renovated communal spaces designed to help women and children escaping family violence heal and rebuild their lives.
The shelter officially opened the upgraded facilities on Tuesday, bringing together key partners and supporters who helped deliver the project.
The renovations include a purpose-built activities space, a recreation room, a therapy room and an improved outdoor play area.
Each space was redesigned using trauma-informed principles to create safe, welcoming environments that encourage connection, resilience and recovery.
The upgrades were funded through a mix of supporters including the Tasmanian Community Fund, Variety Tasmania, Hobart Airport, the federal government’s Safe Places Emergency Accommodation Program and Homes Tasmania.
Janet Saunders, CEO of Hobart Women’s Shelter, said safe and calming environments are essential to helping people recover from trauma and rebuild their confidence.
“These newly renovated spaces will make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of the women and children we support,” she said.
“We are incredibly grateful to our partners and supporters who have helped bring these spaces to life.”
Tasmanian Community Fund chair Kym Goodes said the fund was pleased to back the project at a time of growing need.
“We are seeing growing demand for crisis accommodation across Tasmania and investments like this are an important part of strengthening how communities respond,” Goodes said.
“We need to ensure we are not only providing immediate safety, but also creating environments that support recovery and longer-term wellbeing.”
The unveiling also marks a step toward a bigger expansion at the shelter.
A total of $3.08 million from the federal Safe Places program, combined with $6 million from Homes Tasmania, will fund 15 new two-bedroom self-contained units.
Homes Tasmania interim CEO Ben Wilson said the agency is committed to supporting people escaping family violence.
“We look forward to working with the Hobart Women’s Shelter on the delivery of the 15 new units so even more Tasmanian women can receive the accommodation, help and support they need,” he said.
Housing and Planning Minister Kerry Vincent said the Tasmanian government recognises women are “disproportionately affected” by homelessness and family violence.
“We are proud to help fund these important upgrades and the expansion at the Hobart Women’s Shelter,” Vincent said.
Anyone needing support can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
