Release Date: 23/07/2013
PEAK business organisation, the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI)
says the two latest commentaries on the Tasmanian economy simply emphasise the need
for effective economic and employment policy action and outcomes.
TCCI Chief Executive Michael Bailey said the CommSec report and the Deloitte Access
Economics confirmed Tasmania’s difficult economic position should send a clear message
to government, business, unions and indeed the entire community that action was
required.
Mr Bailey said that while Tasmania continued to lag the nation, there were some faint
signals of hope.
“Retail spending is increasing and the falling Australian dollar will assist our exports and
tourism,” he said.
“But the value of the dollar will only decrease slowly, so we need some real policy
initiatives that will generate solid and sustainable outcomes.
“The reports show that population growth has slowed, business investment is stagnant and
we continue to trail the rest of Australia in a range of key indicators.
“We need business growth and investment to encourage population growth and that is why
it’s imperative to have sound strategies and policies that encourage businesses to expand
and take on workers.
“This is a key thrust behind the employment crisis forum set down for August 7 in
Launceston that the TCCI convened at the request of Premier Lara Giddings. This followed
the recent release of ABS figures revealing Tasmania’s unemployment rate at 8.1 per cent,
the worst in Australia.”
Mr Bailey said the forum would not be a platform for motherhood statements or political
point scoring.
“We want real debate, valid outcomes and workable solutions to what is a critical issue for
Tasmania’s future. And we want input from business telling us about the issues and
opportunities.
“This is an important event because business is at the coal face. Business understands
how to improve the economy, what is needed and what are the opportunities and barriers,
and we intend to hold our political leaders accountable for the outcomes.”
Industry leaders and other industry players have been invited to the forum and the TCCI is
seeking input from its members so these views can be presented on the day.
“We want business to have a clear and united voice in letting governments know what
needs to be done to not only secure current jobs, but also, to create new employment
opportunities which are desperately needed,” Mr Bailey said.
Ends…..