Recovery targets announced soon

A COMMITTEE tasked with devising a blueprint to restart Tasmania’s economy amid the coronavirus crisis will provide its first feedback to the Government next month.

Premier Peter Gutwein yesterday joined the Economic and Social Recovery Advisory Council to discuss the steps towards rebuilding the state as it emerges from the health and economic challenges caused by COVID-19.

The council of community and business leaders, chaired by former Treasury chief Don Challen, was announced in parliament last month, and has already met several times.

Also on the committee are business leaders Dale Elphinstone, Tim Gardner, Samantha Hogg and Paul Ranson; community advocate Kym Goodes, UTAS vice-chancellor Rufus Black, tourism operator Brett Torossi and Children’s Commissioner Leanne McLean.

Mr Gutwein said the council had been established to discuss ways to identify opportunities for economic and social renewal.

“Importantly, this will be done in consultation with all Tasmanians, with the council to undertake a three-stage consultation process geared around the timing of key deliverables.”

Mr Gutwein said he expected to receive a stage one report by the end of June, to ensure economic and social recovery was progressed ahead of the budget being handed down in November.

The Premier said the Government was working with Treasury on a review of the state’s $3.7 billion infrastructure program to identify projects that could be brought forward.

He said they would include affordable housing, school upgrades, roads and other government infrastructure. The program is expected to be announced next week.

Braddon Labor MP Shane Broad said investment in key regional infrastructure projects and a strong focus on the state’s North-West needed to be central to recovery packages.

“The North-West outbreak and associated extended lockdown period means the impacts of COVID-19 have been deeper and will be felt for longer than in other parts of the state,’’ Dr Broad said.

“We know the NorthWest region will be vulnerable in recovery because of our demographics, our high exposure to global markets, and the lower level of economic growth in recent years, compared to other parts of the state.

“That’s why it will be important to supercharge investment in critical regional infrastructure, to stimulate the economy and rebuild confidence.”

Greens leader Cassy O’Connor said the party hoped the council would focus on delivering more green skills and jobs, and a housing-led recovery.