Deloraine House first opened its doors in August 1989, following a shared vision among local community members for a welcoming, central place where people could connect, grow, and reach their full potential.
Driven by this vision, a dedicated group undertook a significant fundraising effort to secure a permanent home. While an initial plan to purchase a property on East Barrack Street did not proceed, the community successfully acquired 112 Emu Bay Road. Through remarkable local support, $55,000 was raised to purchase the building, including $12,000 in generous donations.
From the outset, Deloraine House was established to strengthen community connection and participation. It provides opportunities for personal development, social engagement, and community involvement. At its core, the House offers a safe and inclusive space where people can meet, reduce social isolation, and work together to address broader social challenges.
Deloraine House has long been part of a wider network of community houses (34) across Tasmania. It was originally supported under the peak body then known as the Tasmanian Association of Community Houses (TACH), now Neighbourhood Houses Tasmania. Formed in 1985, TACH was established to represent and support community houses statewide, initially operating through volunteer governance and without recurrent funding.
In 2000, the Tasmanian Government formally recognised the value of neighbourhood houses by introducing recurrent funding support through the Department of Premier and Cabinet. This investment contributes to staffing and operational support across the network, including Deloraine House.
What We Do Today
Today, Deloraine House delivers place-based, community-led services that respond to identified local need and align with key funding priorities across Tasmania.
We provide frontline support to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity, housing stress and homelessness, social isolation, and alcohol and other drug-related challenges. This includes practical assistance, early intervention, and supported referrals to specialist services.
Our service model combines direct client support with community development. We facilitate access to emergency relief, information, and advocacy, while also delivering programs and activities that strengthen social connection, build individual capacity, and promote wellbeing.
Deloraine House supports both individual client engagement and broader community participation, recognising that sustainable outcomes are achieved through connection, inclusion, and local responsiveness. Our programs are informed by lived experience, local data, and emerging community trends.
Through strong partnerships, volunteer engagement, and collaboration with government and non-government stakeholders, we contribute to an integrated service system that improves access, reduces barriers, and enhances outcomes for our community.
Deloraine House remains committed to delivering responsive, accountable, and impactful services that support resilience, inclusion, and long-term community wellbeing.