Extreme weather emergency refuge
We have developed an Extreme Weather Protocol which facilitates the opening of an Emergency Refuge. This was developed with Hobart City Mission and The Salvation Army's Streets 2 Home program.
The Emergency Refuge is designed for people who are sleeping rough. This can include sleeping in parks or other public spaces, cars, or other inadequate and unsafe shelter.
It aims to reduce health and wellbeing risks as well as potential loss of life.
The refuge is opened by the City when weather forecasts indicate extreme conditions. This may include:
- low snowfall
- severe storms or torrential rain
- extreme cold
- extended periods of extreme heat.
The refuge offers basic but safe respite from the harsh weather that can hit Hobart.
We will post social media notices and inform our community partners when the Emergency Refuge is open. Streets 2 Home will also undertake assertive outreach to people sleeping rough to inform them when the refuge is open.
This project has been delivered through the Greater Hobart Homelessness Alliance.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the Emergency Refuge?
We work with the Hobart City Mission and the Salvation Army to provide an Emergency Refuge during periods of extreme weather.
This happens when forecast weather conditions pose a serious risk to the health or life of people who are sleeping rough.
Who is it for?
The Emergency Refuge is for people who have no shelter and who may be sleeping in doorways, in parks or other public spaces as well as people who are sleeping in tents or cars.
Where is it?
The Emergency Refuge is located at Criterion House, which is down Mathers Lane.
This is between the State Library and The Playhouse Theatre on Bathurst Street.
What does it provide?
- A low‑barrier, welcoming environment.
- A secure and safe, overnight space.
- Stretchers, pillows, sheets and blankets.
- A shower and toilets.
- Light refreshments.
- Power to charge personal devices.
- Supportive and experienced Hobart City Mission staff.
How many people can stay?
The current venue in Criterion House is able to safely accommodate 12 people overnight.
What weather conditions will open it?
The Emergency Refuge may open when the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts overnight weather conditions that pose a serious threat to people's health or life.
This includes extreme cold, severe storms or heavy rain as well as extended periods of extreme heat.
How long is it open?
The Emergency Refuge operates from 6.30 pm and then closes at 8 am the next morning.
Are bookings available to secure a bed?
No, bookings are not available for the Emergency Refuge.
People are asked to come between 6.30 pm and 9.30 pm to secure a bed, as space is limited.
Do people need ID to access it?
No, but basic details of people accessing the Emergency Refuge are collected for records.
Can people under 18 access it by themselves?
No, people under 18 who are not accompanied by a parent or carer cannot access the Emergency Refuge.
For information about youth shelters contact:
Are pets allowed?
Yes, there is capacity to keep a small number of pets in the Emergency Refuge. However pets will be kept in a pet crate.
Where can I find out if it's open?
What other options are available if it's full?
For information about other emergency accommodation options contact:
Who runs the refuge?
The City of Hobart fully funds and coordinates the Emergency Refuge, covering all staff costs, as well as providing and setting up the venue and all of the equipment needed to open it.
The Hobart City Mission provides the staff to manage the Emergency Refuge overnight, as well as promoting the Emergency Refuge at the Safe Spaces.
The Salvation Army's Street 2 Home program undertakes assertive outreach to contact people who are sleeping rough in the City, to let them know that the shelter is open.
Where can I get more information about housing or homelessness services in Hobart?
Emergency Refuge FAQs(PDF, 139KB)