Independent Member for Clark, Andrew Wilkie, delivered the following statement to the Federal Parliament.
“With millions of Australians struggling to keep a secure and affordable roof over their heads, there’s no doubt we’re in a housing crisis. And nowhere is this crisis more apparent than in a Tasmanian winter.
“Indeed with winter temperatures in Tasmanian homes averaging as low as ten degrees according to one study, it can be even worse for the tens of thousands of Tasmanians shivering through winter in poorly maintained social and private rentals. And let’s not forget of course the more than 2,300 Tasmanians experiencing homelessness who all too often only have a tent flap between them and the cold.
“Yes, there’s lots of noise from the Federal Government about doubling housing and homelessness funding in the Budget, but the reality is that the funding for Tasmania will in fact decline this year under the National Agreement on Social Housing and Homelessness, from $38.1 million to $37.4 million.
“Which is shocking in itself, but all the more worrisome considering the Minister for Housing and Homelessness is a Tasmanian. Surely the Minister must have seen the desperate need in our state. Surely her office is being continually contacted by constituents desperate for a place to live. Mine sure is.
“No wonder the community is looking to the Government to do more, much more, especially in Tasmania where the housing crises is staring us in the face.”