65 new social and affordable rental apartments have opened in New Town, making Queens Walk Tasmania’s largest public housing complex.
The first tenants have already moved into the $33.5 million development, which was finished two months early in August.
The expansion brings the total number of homes at the Hobart site to 149. It includes 38 one-bedroom and 27 two-bedroom units.
Homes Tasmania stumped up $22.5 million in grants for the development, plus another $4 million for infrastructure and a $7 million loan to community housing provider Housing Choices Tasmania.
Local builder Fairbrother constructed the apartments, which sit alongside older 1950s buildings that were kept as part of the development.
Homes Tasmania CEO Eleri Morgan-Thomas said existing residents benefited from upgraded facilities across the site.
“It’s wonderful to see all the people who have been able to move into their new homes,” she said.
“People who now have a place where they can settle, make plans for their future and build a life in their community.”
Housing Choices Australia’s Hannah Harvey said tenants had already started settling in.
“These homes will provide long-term security and stability for Tasmanians who need them most,” she said.
The development includes new garden beds, a BBQ area, playground equipment and accessible paths.
Housing Choices Tasmania will manage the properties under a 40-year lease arrangement with Homes Tasmania, which retains ownership.
The apartments are located close to public transport and shops.
Homes Tasmania says 4,422 social and affordable homes have been built towards the state government’s target of 10,000 by 2032.
Morgan-Thomas said Queens Walk showed how medium-density housing could deliver more homes on vacant land in established suburbs.
“Every home we build means another Tasmanian household can feel secure, supported and hopeful about their future,” she said.
