In a letter to parishes, Vicar-General, the Right Reverend Chris Jones said many Tasmanians were in "urgent need of affordable, safe shelter".

"One of the most effective ways to make a difference to the state's housing shortage is to make available for rent any suitable properties you own," Reverend Jones said.

"This may mean removing a property from lucrative short-term accommodation options, like AirBnB.

"Parishes may like to consider how their land or buildings might also be used to increase housing supply."

Meanwhile, a plan to develop social and affordable housing at Campbell Town has received widespread support.

Housing minister Roger Jaensch welcomed the plan by the Anglican Church for up to 40 units on land behind St Luke's Church which has been vacant for nearly 200 years.

"Increasing the supply of affordable houses is critical to addressing the current demand for housing in Tasmania," Mr Jaensch said.

"We broadly welcome proposals that contribute to housing supply, noting they must all obtain the necessary approvals."

Federal Labor member for Lyons Brian Mitchell said it was a "great initiative" and urged the government to give it serious attention.

"Housing affordability isn't just an issue in the cities - we also need solutions in the regions and this does that," Mr Mitchell said.

"I've met with the parish about their Campbell Town community hub and social housing concepts and would love to see them get off the ground - I just hope Mr Jaensch will give them the serious attention they deserve."

Northern Midlands Mayor Mary Knowles also supported the project but said it would need to go through the usual council approval processes.

"This proposed development is a positive move for the Campbell Town community and council looks forward to when the development application is ready to be received," Councillor Knowles said.

"There is clearly a need for affordable housing in every community so it is pleasing that the Anglican Church is looking to support the community in this way."

Anglican Bishop of Tasmania Bishop the Right Reverend Dr Richard Condie said the church encouraged parishes to consider how buildings and land could be used to increase housing supply.

"I am delighted that the Midlands Parish is exploring how they can respond to this pressing need.

"I commend them in their endeavours to provide safe and secure accommodation for young people, families and the elderly.

"I hope that others, including Government, will engage with the project as this development would be a blessing to the local community."

Reverend Jones, who is also chief executive of Anglicare Tasmania, said some parishes rented out former rectories or put a "tiny house" on church land for emergency accommodation.

In the letter he pointed out that Anglicare's Rental Affordability Snapshot showed affordable rentals were at an all-time low.

"Of the 1050 properties listed for rent state-wide on the weekend of March 23-24, less than a quarter were affordable and appropriate for households on low incomes," he said.

"Those unable to find suitable properties in our state include older people on the age pension and families living on minimum wage earnings."

Reverend Jones said Anglicare would continue to lobby the government for more affordable housing.

"Public housing is key infrastructure for our state, like public hospitals and schools, and plays a vital role in the creation of healthier communities," he said.

Reverend Jones said parishioners "can add their voices to Anglicare's requests for additional funding for housing" and "demonstrate compassion and love".

The church's call comes as a parliamentary inquiry on housing affordability prepares to take evidence at public hearings starting on Tuesday.

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