A North-West woman who just gave birth to her first child and said she suffered family violence at the hands of her ex-partner has been forced to couch surf while waiting for public housing.
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Despite being eligible for transitional housing due to being a victim of family violence, an administrative error has meant Meaghan Brewer cannot get secure accommodation.
"I've been through a couple of different crisis accommodation places, but you can only stay in each place six weeks at a time.
"Since then, I've just been staying with family and friends."
Ms Brewer is unsure when she will be getting into public housing.
"Unfortunately, any time you try to ask any questions like that, they just say 'we've got nothing available. You're just going to have to wait'.
"It's just the same generic answer every time you try and push them."
While she is thankful that she has the support of loved ones, Ms Brewer said the whole ordeal had been arduous.
"All I want is to be able to put a roof over my child's head and be the best mum I can be.
"It really wears down your mental health.
"It's hard not knowing where you're going to go at the end of each day."
Housing Minister Guy Barnett said the government was committed to helping those in need of housing.
"That is why we are establishing Homes Tasmania to deliver improved housing and homelessness services and to increase the supply of affordable homes and units.
"Homes Tasmania will deliver the Tasmanian Government's 10-year, $1.5 billion housing package, the largest housing investment in the State's history.
"Homes Tasmania will be tasked with building, acquiring and partnering with the not-for-profit sector to deliver 10,000 new homes by 2032."
In addition, a Communities Tasmania spokesperson said there is housing help for victims of family violence.
"Housing Connect can provide brokerage accommodation assistance for people that are victims of family violence, where there are no shelter beds available.
"In addition, the Rapid Rehousing program provides transitional accommodation at a subsidised rent.
The spokesperson also said that Housing Connect could provide family violence victims with a support worker.
"Shelters in Tasmania offer crisis accommodation of up to six weeks, however this can be extended where suitable safe alternative accommodation has not been sourced."
The spokesperson also said that there were five crisis accommodation services available in the North-West for those needing help.
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