ACTION PLAN

On January 15, we published an action plan made up of the 10 biggest issues raised by readers and subject matter experts during our Tassie 2022 series. We requested that both Liberals and the Labor Party deliver — before the election — a detailed plan on how they would address each of the issues if they win government. Today, we publish the fourth of our report cards.

1. POPULATION GROWTH

Significant planning and investment is needed to ensure that infrastructure and services keep pace as our population grows to 650,000 by 2050.

2 REAL FIX FOR RENTAL CRISIS

Hobart is suffering the lowest vacancy rates recorded in an Australian capital city at only 0.4 per cent. Both sides need to address this urgently.

3. ADDRESS THE GAP BETWEEN RICH AND POOR

As Tasmania gentrifies, the have-nots are being pushed to the urban fringes. There also remains an economic disparity between Hobart and the regions.

4. NEW INFRASTRUCTURE FOR THE ARTS

How do we capitalise on the Mona effect in regional areas? And how should we fund better arts infrastructure — possibly via a levy on construction.

5. REVIEW THE USE OF STATE GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS

Independent review of state-owned heritage buildings currently occupied by public servants or commercial businesses.

6. FIX DRYSDALE

We need to ensure proper training for tourism operators and workers. Perhaps learn from what New Zealand did leading up to the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

7. SOURCE MORE FUNDING FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND AGED CARE

Tasmanians want more supported accommodation for people with mental illness, and our ageing population needs a better plan to meet the demand for aged care.

8. FIX TASTAFE

We need to revitalise TAFE. Not every student is bound for university, and TAFE will be vital to state growth as a key producer of skilled workers.

9. TRANSPORT

Fix congestion in Hobart with light rail, River Derwent ferries and/or bypasses. Also required are better regional transport links and improved interstate freight transport.

10. COST OF LIVING

Petrol prices have been an issue for years. Households also want cheaper electricity and help with small-scale renewable energy to become more self-sufficient.