Tasmania’s first dedicated community-based eating disorder treatment centre has opened its doors in Launceston, providing specialist care for northern Tasmanians closer to home.
The Tasmanian Eating Disorder Service facility on Westbury Road offers day and evening programs in a home-like environment, allowing patients to maintain connections with family, work and education during treatment.
The centre features therapy and consultation rooms, kitchen and dining spaces, therapeutic gardens and office areas for clinical staff.
Health Minister Bridget Archer said the facility would transform care for many Tasmanians.
“This new facility means our multidisciplinary team can provide more of their compassionate recovery-oriented services in a welcoming community environment, close to home for people across the north,” Archer said.
“Importantly, it’s a key part of our plan to enhance access to specialist eating disorder services throughout the State, with another dedicated centre to be established in southern Tasmania at St Johns Park.”
The facility’s construction, completed last month by local contractor Anstie Constructions, involved refurbishing two existing buildings on the site.
The $3.4 million project received $2.5 million from the federal government through the Community Health and Hospitals Program, with the Tasmanian government contributing $915,000 plus ongoing operational funding.
Federal Member for Bass Jess Teesdale said local treatment options were vital.
“Having a dedicated eating disorder service here in Launceston is incredibly important for people across the north, because recovery is strongest when care is available close to home and within the community,” Teesdale said.
“This facility gives people the opportunity to access specialist, evidence-based support while staying connected to their family, education, and work, which can make a real difference in the recovery journey.”
