Supporting our key health workers in northern Tasmania

Key health workers in the north now have access to accommodation as part of a new Tasmanian Government initiative that has delivered a new 24-unit complex, offering housing to workers at the Launceston General Hospital.

The Tasmanian Government is providing more key worker accommodation to key frontline health workers as it continues to significantly recruit more health workers.  

Minister for Housing and Planning, Felix Ellis, said by providing housing and accommodation options for our key health workers, we can attract and retain more workers to the Launceston General Hospital. 

“Providing these health workers affordable accommodation is crucial to supporting our frontline services, but also allows previously used rentals to be released back into the private market for Tasmanian families,” Minister Ellis said. 

“This will mean doctors, nurses and other health staff that work in the LGH have one less thing to worry about and can focus on their amazing work caring for patients. 

“Under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are committed to delivering more key worker accommodation to grow Tasmanian frontline services.” 

The complex includes 20 two-bedroom units and four one-bedroom units, each with their own living space, accessible bathroom and laundry facility, and a private courtyard or balcony. 

This is the first key worker accommodation delivered by the Tasmanian Government, with other opportunities that can be strategically used to home key workers continuing to be sought. 

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Guy Barnett, said the Tasmanian Government is committed to providing accommodation to nurses, locums and workers on short-term contracts in the region. 

“Our recruitment drive is in full swing with over 500 health workers joining the ranks since April, and we are committed to recruiting even more as we deliver the health services Tasmanians expect and deserve,” the Minister said.  

“Providing appropriate housing in regional areas is essential to attracting and retaining a skilled healthcare workforce that benefits local communities and Tasmania as a whole.

“This partnership is just one of the ways our government is supporting the delivery of better healthcare services in our regions and improving access to housing for more Tasmanians.”