The TCCI is the voice of business in Tasmania and remains concerned about Tasmania’s participation rate.

 

TCCI CEO, Michael Bailey, said the latest participation figures from the ABS released today show that Tasmania has the worst participation rate in the country.

 

Tasmania’s participation rate in January this year was 60.2 per cent, while the national rate was 67 per cent.  Tasmania’s participation rate has dropped by 1.4 percentage points since February 2023.

 

“If our participation rate was at the national average, over a ten-year period over 11,000 jobs would be created, households would be $1,500 better off and the State’s economy would be boosted by $3.7 billion,” Mr Bailey said.

 

“The TCCI wants to work with the Tasmanian Government to make boosting participation a key focus for 2025 and tackle barriers like transport, literacy, skills and childcare.

 

“There are no quick fixes.  It’s a long-term issue, but the best place to start is with a clear plan and the resources needed to tackle the issue and make it a priority.”