St Vincent De Paul Society unveils plans for $16.7m, 38 apartment development on Argyle St, Hobart

A potential new development of 38 apartments in Hobart’s CBD will offer vulnerable women facing homelessness a “safe haven” to access safety and support. See the plans and proposed facilities.

A new 38-unit development, behind the St Vincent de Paul offices in Argyle St, Hobart, will provide homes for women who are at risk of homelessness, with a particular focus on women aged 55 and over. Picture: Maguire + Devine Architects

As the number of homeless women aged over 55 continues to grow, the St Vincent De Paul Society has unveiled plans for a $16.7m project for apartments for vulnerable older women in Hobart.

Vinnies is partnering with Amélie Housing, a national community housing provider to lodge a planning application with the Hobart City Council for 38 studio apartments for women in desperate need of help.

The council is seeking more information on the project which will then need to be advertised publicly before going to the planning committee.

Vinnies CEO Heather Kent said Vinnies was committed to making a positive impact in the community.

A new 38-unit development, behind the St Vincent de Paul offices in Argyle St, Hobart, will provide homes for women who are at risk of homelessness, with a particular focus on women aged 55 and over. Picture: Maguire + Devine Architects

“By making additional enhancements to our current site, we are not only addressing the housing needs of older women but also fostering a sense of community and support,” she said.

“The number of women over 55 at risk of or experiencing homelessness is increasing at a drastic pace due to domestic breakdowns and mounting cost-of-living pressures.

“This development is about creating a safe haven where these women can find not only shelter but also the support they desperately need.

“We are working with council, neighbours and stakeholders on the development application process and look forward to progressing this important development for disadvantaged women in Hobart.”

The project is being delivered in partnership by Amélie Housing and Vinnies, supported by Homes Tasmania through the federal government’s social housing accelerator program.

Federal Housing Minister and Franklin MP Julie Collins has welcomed the project saying the $2bn accelerator program is delivering 4000 homes across Australia.

“This new project goes to the heart of our government’s commitment to ensure more Australians have a safe and affordable place to call home,” she said.

“The women who will move into these homes in Hobart are in critical need of a safe home

Tasmanian Labor Senator Carol Brown said the project not only addressed housing challenges “but also demonstrates our commitment to supporting vulnerable women in Tasmania and across the country”.

A new 38-unit development, behind the St Vincent de Paul offices in Argyle St, Hobart, will provide homes for women who are at risk of homelessness, with a particular focus on women aged 55 and over. Picture: Maguire + Devine Architects

“Having a home is life changing,” she said. “It’s great to see Tasmanian women being able to make that dream a reality.”

Tasmanian Housing Minister Nic Street, said developments such as Vinnies were critical to improving the housing system for all Tasmanians.

“This development is a great example of the Tasmanian and Australian Governments and community organisations working together towards the common goal of ending homelessness in Tasmania,” he said.

“Under the recently released 20-year Tasmanian Housing Strategy 2023-43, we have committed to delivering more quality homes, faster.

“Medium-density, infill, and well-located developments are key to achieving this and this development is a perfect example of such a project.”

The development has been designed by Maguire + Devine Architects, and will sit above Vinnies’ existing furniture warehouse in Argyle St, using the existing driveway from Church St.

Under an agreement with Homes Tasmania, tenants will be accommodated and supported under a tenancy agreement with Amélie Housing.

Vinnies says the development has four levels revolving around a vertical garden with each studio containing its own kitchen, bathroom and private balcony, ensuring comfort and privacy for all residents.

The architects say the building is designed like a village, with communal green space on the rooftop where residents can enjoy open space, sunlight and views.

Originally published as St Vincent De Paul Society unveils plans for $16.7m, 38 apartment development on Argyle St, Hobart