Tasmania top scores in key social survey

TASMANIA has topped the countrywide rankings for two key quality of life indicators in a new social progress index. The state scored highs of 78.82 per cent for environmental quality and 79.88 for personal freedom and choice in the Australian Social Progress Index. Tas Uni Dive Club diver John Sutton said he and his friends spent their time cleaning surrounding waterways and contributing to the “pristine” environment. “I’ve travelled the world and I’ve always considered Tassie my home,” he said. “I want to preserve it for my children and grandchildren.” He said Tasmania’s unique environment made it a great destination for sustainable outdoor tourism such as diving. The SPI ranked the Apple Isle third highest in Australia for overall quality of life at 57.38, beaten only by 58.15 in NSW and 69.76 in ACT. Tasmania’s personal rights index was second highest at 75.73, but the state fell short as the lowest scorer for access to advanced education at 27.72, and access to information and communications at 30.77. The state also fared poorly for inclusiveness, shelter and health and wellness. The Centre for Social Impact started the Social Progress Index in 2015, and launched it yesterday to measure social progress holistically and independently of economic factors. CSI chief executive professor Kristy Muir said the index would reveal social progress areas that flourished and struggled, guiding potential funding decisions. “The purpose of the SPI is to ensure a clear, singular vision of what social progress looks like in Australia,” she said. The free online resource is available at amplify.csi.edu.au/ social-progress-index