Future relies on clear path

BUSINESS CONFIDENCE IS UP BUT QUESTIONS AND CRITICISM LINGERS OVER THE TIME IT TAKES FOR MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS TO BE SHOVEL-READY AND THEN GET COMPLETED.

BOLDLY cutting through thickets of red tape is one of those ideas that no sensible person could challenge. Neither is the notion that businesses need to run as efficiently and effectively as possible to remain as competitive and prosperous in tough markets.

Red tape and overregulation are unquestionably bad things and it is the work of good governments to eradicate them, to allow the wheels of commerce to roll more freely.

To a degree, red tape is an inevitable by-product of government. That is why a careful eye should be kept on those who claim to be “cutting red tape” to ensure they’re doing what they say they are.

State Growth Minister Michael Ferguson yesterday revealed his government’s progress on cutting Tasmanian red tape in a 145-report.

The audit document, dubbed a rolling report, provided a full list of areas that have been resolved.

The government say they are now at 84 per cent completion, up from 76 per cent last year, but acknowledge there is still a way to go.

In the report listed for completion in 2020 is planning reform — major projects, the National Business Simplification Initiative, Refining the Lease and Licensing Functions for Parks and Wildlife, Review of Tasmania’s Local Government Legislation, review of small passenger vehicle regulation.

All are marked as “work in progress”. Minister Ferguson’s mantra is to make Tasmania one of the best places in the country to do business.

The government must continue to do this by striking the right balance between fostering an environment for success while equally protecting the things that are unique about this state.