The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) is calling on all political parties to prioritise budget repair and fiscal responsibility as a key focus of the upcoming state election campaign.

 

Michael Bailey, CEO of the TCCI, said Tasmania’s business community expects the next Government to show real discipline when it comes to managing the state’s finances.

 

“This is not about austerity for its own sake,” Mr Bailey said. 

 

“It’s about making sure every dollar spent by government delivers real value for the community, and that we’re building an environment where the private sector—the real driver of economic growth—is supported, not held back.  Budget repair needs to be the next Government’s top priority.”

 

The TCCI has written to both major parties requesting details of their election commitments. Responses from both parties are attached.  Labor’s response also includes its savings plan and we call on the Liberals to release their savings plan ahead of next week’s election.

 

“The next Tasmanian Government must stick to its budget and ensure its spending is responsible and sustainable,” Mr Bailey said. 

 

TCCI Election Priorities

 

The TCCI’s key priorities for the 2025 Tasmanian election are:

  1. Budget Sustainability
    • Restore the budget to surplus through disciplined spending, fully costed savings, and backing the private sector.
  2. Energy Policy
    • Deliver Marinus Link on schedule, invest in renewable energy, and ensure affordable power for households and businesses.
  3. Governance
    • Introduce a Government-Business Charter to prioritise local contracts, ensure stability, and reform the public sector.
  4. Cost of Doing Business
    • Review business costs and develop a cost index to address rising expenses like power, insurance, and taxes.
  5. Education and Skills
    • Increase workforce participation by addressing barriers (education, transport, health) and supporting the TCCI’s Participation Taskforce.
  6. GBEs and Public Entities
    • Reform Government Business Enterprises (GBEs) and State-owned Companies (SOCs) to align with commercial principles and review TasWater’s regulations.
  7. Health System Review
    • Establish a Commission of Inquiry to improve efficiency and sustainability in Tasmania’s health system.
  8. Infrastructure
    • Develop a priority infrastructure list to guide investments and secure federal funding.

Please follow this link for The Premier - Jeremy Rockcliffe's response

Please follow this link for Labor Member for Clark - Josh Willie's response