As growing numbers of Tasmanians grapple with finding a roof over their heads, two local councils are examining how to convert unused properties into short-term accommodation.
High living costs and rising rents have forced many Tasmanians out onto the street or into precarious living situations.Glenorchy City Council and Break O'Day council are looking at ways to repurpose unused buildings for emergency accommodation
While the state government has promised 10,000 new public housing homes by 2032, there are concerns for people who need a roof over their heads now. Break O'Day Mayor Mick Tucker wants to explore how it can be repurposed to help the growing homeless population. "As a community leader and as a community council, which is there for the community, we want to do what we can to help and assist people in need," he said.
"It's important for us to understand and share [with State Government] the responsibility in addressing homelessness," she said.