Construction has begun today on the first dedicated Tasmanian Eating Disorder Services (TEDS) facility for Northern Tasmania.
The project is being jointly funded from $2.5 million committed by the Australian Government and $825,000 by the Tasmanian Government.
Local construction contractor, Anstie Construction, has been appointed to refurbish the existing property into a modern and fit-for purpose health facility.
Once complete, TEDS North will deliver Community Based Intensive Treatment, including specialist individual therapy along with day and evening programs, for the treatment of eating disorders in a home-like environment.
“The new facility will deliver a much-needed, essential health service to the Launceston and wider Northern Tasmania communities as there is currently no dedicated community-based treatment facility for eating disorders in the region,” said Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Roger Jaensch.
“This facility will be life changing for many Tasmanians living with an eating disorder and their families.”
The main building and its surrounds will be renovated to provide a reception area, with consultation and treatment rooms, kitchen and dining spaces, plus a therapeutic garden and decked outdoor areas.
A separate building on the site will be refurbished into a flexible office with meeting room spaces and off street car parking spaces.
“Eating disorders are notoriously difficult to treat and very dangerous. Having support close to home is so important,” said Federal Minister for Health, Mark Butler.
“This new eating disorder centre will provide compassionate and coordinated care for people living with eating disorders in Northern Tasmania, as well as their families and carers.
“It is just one way we are tackling the growing impact of eating disorders, and making more health services available for Tasmanians.”
Works started today and are expected to be completed by late October. The new facility, located at 416-418 Westbury Road Prospect Vale, is hoped to be operational by the year’s end.
