Tassie’s regional hitch

State argues term has ‘negative connotation’ in attracting migrants

THE Tasmanian Government has argued that being described as “regional” could negatively affect the state’s efforts to attract migrants and wants to be marketed as “something more attractive”.

In a submission to the Federal Government, written with the South Australian and Northern Territory governments, Tasmania has called for a shift in how regional areas are sold to would-be migrants such as international students and investors.

The three states have argued that the term “regional” suggested an area had negative characteristics, “such as rural, outback and a lack of services”.

“A change of the terminology can better capture the current efforts to make these areas more attractive and can create the positive drive for investment and growth,” the governments’ submission said.

“Whilst the term ‘regional Australia’ is used domestically to promote economic, social and cultural development to Australians who understand the true value of living in these areas, in some countries, ‘regional’ has a negative connotation and using this descriptor can be detrimental to achieving the desired growth.”

Treasurer Peter Gutwein represented Tasmania at a meeting of Australian governments discussing population growth yesterday in Canberra.

Tasmania, South Australia and the Northern Territory are keen to boost their populations, with Tasmania aiming to reach 650,000 people by 2050.

Other solutions floated included adjusting some visa schemes, incentivising a business investment program and giving international students increased work rights once they finished their study.

Mr Gutwein said yesterday: “We must ensure our growth is sustainable for the long term and our infrastructure and services are able to respond to increased demand and we welcome the opportunity to work with other states and territories and the Commonwealth on the development of the principles to inform a National Population and Planning Framework.”