The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) is calling for action to save Tasmania’s crucial major industries.

 

TCCI CEO Michael Bailey said Tasmania’s industrial backbone was under threat and decisive, coordinated action was needed now to avoid devastating consequences for the state’s economy and communities.

 

“Major industrials like Nyrstar are the lifeblood of our economy,” Mr Bailey said. 

 

“They support thousands of Tasmanian families, contribute hundreds of millions in economic value and form the backbone of critical sovereign capability for Australia.

 

“Nyrstar alone employs more than 500 Tasmanians and generates over $500 million in economic value for our state. But without swift and serious support, these jobs and the communities behind them are at risk.”

 

Mr Bailey said that while Nyrstar’s immediate challenges were in the spotlight, broader energy and infrastructure issues were also placing pressure on Tasmania’s industry sector.

 

“This is not just about one smelter. It’s about Tasmania’s long-term economic security. Transmission costs are rising, energy reliability is under pressure, and businesses are increasingly exposed to global economic volatility. Governments must step up.

 

“If the Federal Government is serious about strengthening sovereign capability and creating high-value jobs in future industries, then here is a chance to show it.

 

“We need a coordinated commitment from all sides of politics – state and federal - to back in the industries that have backed Tasmania for decades.

 

“Tasmania should be positioning itself as a national leader in advanced manufacturing and critical mineral processing. If Tasmania loses any of its major industrials, the entire state will suffer from higher power prices, job losses and the erosion of regional economies. The cost of doing nothing will far outweigh the cost of stepping in.”