A re-elected Federal Liberal Government will commit $360,000 to build and fit out a new Hobart Community Shed.

Liberal Candidate for Clark, Will Coats said the commitment would deliver a purpose-built facility for the broader Hobart community, the first of its kind in Australia.

“The Hobart Community Shed will be the first shed in Australia located in a capital city, providing both men and women with access to a fantastic community asset right here in Hobart,” Mr Coats said.

“Men’s Sheds bring people together from all walks of life where they forge lasting friendships, develop and learn new skills, and feel supported to discuss issues focused on health and wellbeing.

“In addition to the workshop facilities for activities including woodworking and metal work, the Hobart Community Shed will cater for the broader community and include an arts and craft activity space, kitchen and meeting rooms.

“I’d like to acknowledge the hard work and advocacy of the Hobart Community Shed Board to make this project a reality.

“Our funding commitment joins funding from both the Rotary Club of Hobart and Tasmanian Liberal Government, and is a demonstration of the Federal Government’s strong working relationship with our State colleagues and the local community to deliver better outcomes for the people of Clark.

“Only a re-elected Federal Liberal Government has a plan to build a strong economy and a stronger future for Tasmania.”

Chair of the Hobart Community Shed, Peter Shelley welcomed the commitment and said it was a major milestone to provide facilities for men and women in a capital city.

“The Board of the Hobart Community Shed Ltd are absolutely delighted that the Federal Government have announced this wonderful support for this essential Community Project,” Mr Shelley said.

“We have seen the development of Men’s Shed grow exponentially throughout the country, but to have the opportunity of providing a purpose built facility for all members of the community in a capital city is a resounding achievement, and one which will provide the citizens of Hobart with a unique community first.”

The Hobart Community Shed will be located at 64 Anglesea Street, South Hobart, making the shed accessible from the city centre with access to parking.