The State Government announced this week that MercyCare was awarded with a new contract to provide supported accommodation for women experiencing homelessness.
The announcement followed the closure of the facility at St Bart’s due to site redevelopment plans.
Homelessness minister and local MP Matthew Swinbourn said the new contract will ensure vulnerable women continue to receive the support services needed.
“With St Bart’s no longer able to provide the service, we moved quickly to secure a new provider so that every woman currently supported will have access to safe and suitable accommodation,” he said.
“I thank St Barts for its ongoing engagement with government in ensuring a smooth transition for the women into new services.
“The Cook Government invests $1.8 million each year to fund this essential service, and we remain deeply committed to supporting women facing homelessness.”
The new service at MercyCare will provide secure accommodation and other services for up to 27 women.
Each person currently residing at the St Bart’s facility will be individually assessed to determine the most appropriate housing and support option, which is promised to be secured before the service transition begins.
Minister Swinbourn said the State Government will work with both MercyCare and St Bart’s to ensure a smooth transition of homelessness services for women.
