Department of Health & Human Services, Tasmania
About Housing

You may find that some people would prefer to keep to themselves. Most people appreciate considerate neighbours and peaceful communities.

Neighbourhood Houses are a really good way of getting to know people in your community. Neighbourhood Houses also offer many services and learning opportunities. To find your nearest Neighbourhood House contact the Tasmanian Association of Community Houses on 6244 1615 or visit their website.

Dealing with disagreements

If you and your neighbours disagree; here are some suggestions that may help:

• Discuss the matter calmly with them first - disagreements are often the result of a misunderstanding.
• Make a note of when the problem happens as this maybe useful if you need to take the matter further.
• Talk calmly together about possible solutions to the problem. There are usually a number of ways to fix the problem. Remember that your solution may not work for both of you.
• Listen to their point of view and try to reach an agreement.
• If you can't resolve the disagreement, a community mediation service may be able to assist.

Community Mediation

If you cannot resolve the matter yourself, you could call a community mediation service.

Mediation services are available through the Supreme Court of Tasmania and 'Positive Solutions' (formerly Community Mediation Service Tasmania).

Local Council

If the disagreement refers to a breach of Council by-laws for example excessive noise, barking dogs etc then you may wish to contact your Local Council.

The Local Government Association of Tasmania has a list of all Councils' contact information.

Tasmania Police

If the matter is of a criminal nature, you must call the police immediately. Click here for Tasmania Police contact information.

Housing Tasmania's role in disagreements

Housing Tasmania encourages public housing tenants and their neighbours to sort out their problems between themselves but does investigate breaches of a Lease agreement. For further information refer to Neighbours, Communities and Dealing with Disagreements fact sheet.

Legal Advice

In some circumstances you may wish to seek legal advice from a community legal service (listed below) or your solicitor.

Hobart Community Legal Service

Phone: 6223 2500
Fax: 6223 2510
Email: hclsmanager@netspace.net.au
Website: www.hobartlegal.org.au

Launceston Community Legal Centre

Phone: 6334 1577
Fax: 6331 5237
Email: Launceston_Tas@fcl.asn.au

North West Community Legal Centre (Tas)

Phone: 6424 8720
Fax: 6424 4604
Email: North_West_TAS@fcl.asn.au

Womens Legal Service (Tas)

Phone: 1800 682 468 (Tasmania)
Fax: 6224 1818
Email: wlstas@netspace.net.au

Tenants Union of Tasmania

Phone: 6223 2641
Fax: 6223 2510
Email: tenants@netspace.net.au
Website: www.tutas.org.au