Anglicare has opened a supported youth accommodation facility in Devonport to support young people as they move into adulthood.

Eveline House features 25 units, five of them purpose-built for people with a disability. Each tenant has a self-contained unit with access to a laundry, gym, common areas, outdoor spaces and a games room.

Anglicare CEO Chris Jones says the complex is a much-needed response to youth
homelessness in Tasmania.

‘Eveline House provides tenants with safe, affordable housing, as well as opportunities to participate in community activities, education, employment and training. It is a vibrant place where young people are encouraged to build on their existing strengths and capabilities.’

Anglicare manages similar facilities in Launceston (Thyne House) and Hobart (Trinity Hill).

Tenancies at Eveline House are for young people aged 16-24 years who are on a low income and eligible for social housing. The general tenancies at Eveline House are already full and two of the purpose-built units are occupied, with talks underway with the National Disability Insurance Scheme about the final three places.

Earlier this year, Anglicare’s Rental Affordability Snapshot showed that for young people  receiving Youth Allowance, there were no affordable rental options anywhere in Tasmania.

‘No Tasmanian should have to worry about where they’ll sleep that night or how they’ll afford to eat,’ Dr Jones says.

‘Long term, affordable housing is foundational for people to fully participate in education, training and employment’.

Anglicare manages similar facilities in Launceston (Thyne House) and Hobart (Trinity Hill) and Dr Jones says Eveline House was made possible with the support of the Tasmanian Government and many advocates in Tasmania’s North West.

‘I look forward to seeing how the young people who live here will use their strengths and skills to contribute to this community.’