New housing complex to bring flourishing and transformation to women’s lives

The Salvation Army Tasmania officially opened 21 new community housing units on the former Moonah Corps site last month. These units are specifically for women over the age of 55.

By KIRRALEE NICOLLE

Women in the Glenorchy region of Tasmania over the age of 55 who are experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness have a new chance at finding housing, thanks to The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army Tasmania officially opened 21 new community housing units on the former Moonah Corps site on 30 June.

Tasmanian Divisional Commander Major Tracy Briggs attended the opening and said the experience of homelessness was becoming increasingly widespread among older women.

Minister for Housing, Guy Barnett MP, greeting guests at the opening of the new facility.

“Australia's homeless population has aged rapidly, and it is no different in Tasmania,” she said. Women over 55 are identified as a cohort increasingly at risk of homelessness. Older single women are particularly vulnerable due to having lower levels of income and assets among other variables. COTA [Council on the Ageing] and Shelter Tas recognise that many older Tasmanians are experiencing housing insecurity and hardship.”

Tracy said she had been blessed to come in on the project close to its completion and meet some of the new tenants. Tenants Sara and Josephine were also at the opening.

Minister for Housing Guy Barnett MP (left) and Chairman of The Select Foundation Bruce Neill.

Tracy quoted former divisional commander Captain Kim Haworth who stated that “this initiative will transform the lives of 21 women in Tasmania. I pray that what we have built here will provide not only lovely and safe homes for 21 people and their families but also create a beautiful community where people can lie their best lives and flourish”.

Chief Secretary Colonel Winsome Merrett officially opened the building, and the event was also attended by The Select Foundation chairman Bruce Neill, Minister for Housing Guy Barnett, Glenorchy mayor Bec Thomas, federal members of Parliament and Salvation Army staff, members and supporters.

Colonel Winsome Merrett, Chief Secretary, addresses those gathered for the opening of the building.

The project was made possible with support from both The Select Foundation and the Tasmanian State Government, as well as the work of Vos Construction and Joinery, Matrix Management Group, architects from X-Squared and JMG Engineers.