---
title: "IMF warning: Tasmanian Government must rein in spending"
date: 2026-02-16T00:00:00+11:00
author: Walker Designs
canonical_url: "https://tcci.com.au/news/imf-warning-tasmanian-government-must-rein-in-spending"
section: News
---
NEWS#  IMF warning: Tasmanian Government must rein in spending 

---

Media Release

  Date 16 February 2026 Category  [Media Releases](https://tcci.com.au/category/media-releases)   

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3. IMF warning: Tasmanian Government must rein in spending
 
 

 

 

  The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) says the International Monetary Fund’s warning about Tasmania’s fiscal position shows the State Government must urgently bring spending under control.

While State revenues have been growing – supported by GST, taxes and Commonwealth grants – government expenses continue to grow even faster, driving debt well beyond earlier projections and breaching the Government’s own fiscal strategy.

“Revenue is not the issue – spending is,” TCCI CEO Michael Bailey OAM said.

> “Tasmanian businesses have to live within their means. It’s time the State Government did the same.”

TCCI is calling on the Premier, Treasurer and all departmental secretaries to put expense control at the top of the agenda, with a clear expectation that agencies slow the growth in operating costs and review existing programs before committing to new spending.

“If recurrent spending is not contained now, Tasmanians will ultimately face higher taxes, fewer services, or both,” the CEO said.

**Media Contact:**

Michael Bailey OAM - CEO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Charter commits to contracting with local businesses, paying invoices within 14 days and acting as a model litigant in any contractual disputes.

 

  

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