Cost of Living Relief for Small Businesses:

— $300 power bill credit for small businesses, lowering immediate costs.

— The Small Business Energy Audit Program ($1.8 million) helps reduce long-term energy costs, improving operating efficiency.

Why care?: Direct financial support and long-term savings increase profitability and reduce operating expenses.

Government Support for Households:

— Concessions on utilities (water, sewerage), housing (stamp duty exemption), and school costs (Healthy School Lunches Program).

Why care?: Healthier, financially stable households lead to a more productive and engaged workforce.

Addressing Infrastructure and Public Services:

— Investments in public infrastructure (hospitals, schools, roads) ensure better access to services.

— Job creation initiatives resulted in 47,000 more employed Tasmanians since 2014.

Why care?: Enhanced infrastructure and a growing local workforce improve business environments and growth opportunities.

Managing Economic Challenges:

— The Government is adapting to reduced GST revenue, high inflation, and increasing interest rates.

— Commitment to easing economic pressures with continued public service investments.

Why care?: Understanding government fiscal management helps businesses anticipate market conditions and plan accordingly.

Handling Social Responsibility:

— $1.1 billion investment to address child sexual abuse in institutions reflects a commitment to ethical governance.

Why care?: Ethical leadership impacts community trust and promotes a stable, socially responsible environment for businesses to thrive.

Budget Planning and Efficiency:

— The Government is focused on improving public finances while supporting economic growth.

— A modest efficiency program saves 50 cents per $100 of government spending, with $3 in new funding for every dollar saved, without increasing taxes.

Why care?: Effective budget management ensures stable economic policies and prevents unexpected cost increases for businesses.

Commitment to No New Taxes:

— No new or increased taxes are planned, reflecting a commitment to avoid adding financial burdens on households and businesses.

Why care?: Stability in taxation helps businesses plan and budget effectively, fostering a predictable business environment.

Debt Management and Economic Growth:

— Tasmania’s Net Debt is low compared to other states, indicating a manageable debt situation despite significant investments.

— The Government aims to balance the Budget by 2028-29 and achieve a Net Operating Surplus by 2029-30.

Why care?: Low debt levels and clear fiscal targets provide a stable economic backdrop for business investment and growth.

Resilient Economy and Job Market:

— Tasmania boasts a low unemployment rate (4.2% or less) and growing population.

— The state has been a strong performer nationally, with a thriving export sector and high domestic economic activity.

Why care?: A robust job market and economic performance support consumer spending and business opportunities.

Positive Outlook and Business Confidence:

— Despite national economic challenges, Tasmania’s economy remains resilient.

— The Government emphasizes maintaining business confidence and stability to support economic development and new opportunities.

Why care?: Positive economic outlook and government support enhance business confidence, leading to more investment and growth opportunities.

Infrastructure Investment:

— The Government is investing $5.1 billion in infrastructure over the next four years, with $1.9 billion allocated to roads and bridges, $650 million to health services, and $359 million to education facilities.

— Major projects include the New Bridgewater Bridge and completion of the Midland Highway Action Plan.

Why care?: These investments enhance transport efficiency, improve health and education facilities, and stimulate job creation, benefiting businesses through better infrastructure and services.

Health and Education Upgrades:

— Significant funding includes $291 million for health projects, including the Launceston General Hospital redevelopment and new facilities at the Royal Hobart Hospital.

— $45 million for a new North-West Support School and $20 million for public transport improvements.

Why care?: Upgrades in health and education facilities improve community well-being and attract a skilled workforce, supporting business growth and productivity.

Federal Cost-Shifting Concerns:

— The Government is advocating for fair federal contributions to infrastructure and healthcare, addressing cost-shifting issues and ensuring adequate support for essential services.

Why care?: Effective advocacy for federal support can lead to better funding for critical infrastructure and services that businesses rely on.

Housing and Social Support:

— $1.5 billion plan to deliver 10,000 social and affordable homes by 2032, and $500 million investment in housing over the next four years.

— Expanded Private Rental Incentive Scheme and support for community organizations.

Why care?: Investments in housing and social support enhance community stability and workforce availability, benefiting the local business environment.

Public Transport and Emergency Services:

— $20 million for new ferry terminals and $140 million for emergency services, including new police recruits and upgrades to fire and emergency services.

Why care?: Improved public transport and emergency services contribute to community safety and efficiency, supporting a favorable business climate.

Tourism and Economic Diversification:

— Initiatives to boost tourism, including marketing and partnerships, aiming to attract more visitors and create jobs.

— Support for critical minerals strategy and agricultural programs to enhance commercial success and farmgate profit.

Why care?: Enhanced tourism and diversified economic strategies create business opportunities and stimulate local economic growth.

Renewable Energy and Environmental Investments:

— $82 million investment in renewable energy generation and $3.2 million for animal welfare and biosecurity.

Why care?: Investments in renewable energy and environmental initiatives support sustainable business practices and ensure long-term economic and environmental health.

Pandemic and Historical Costs:

— Significant costs have been incurred in responding to the pandemic and addressing past shortcomings, including a $6 billion investment in infrastructure since 2014.

Why care?: Past investments in infrastructure have led to improvements across the State, which benefits businesses through better facilities and services.

Infrastructure Modernisation:

— The Government has undertaken the largest modernisation of infrastructure in Tasmania’s history, including hospitals, roads, bridges, and schools.

Why care?: Modernised infrastructure supports business operations by improving transport, access, and community services

Focus on Improving Quality of Life:

— The Government’s focus includes making Tasmania a better place to work, run a business, and enjoy life with family and friends.

Why care?: Improvements in quality of life and business conditions contribute to a healthier business environment and more engaged workforce.