It is heartening and rewarding that businesses throughout Tasmania are describing Christmas trade as extremely strong and, in some cases, at record levels this year.
The Liberal Government promised to create the right businesses conditions to give Tasmanians confidence in the future.
We have created more than 6000 jobs since the March election and business confidence is the highest in the nation.
Our population is growing, housing and construction figures are more than 15% ahead of the same time last year, tourism is booming and the economy is recovering.
While the economy is starting to turn around there is still more work to be done.
One way to help build the local economy is to support Tasmanian businesses.
I encourage all Tasmanians to shop locally when possible during the Boxing Day sales because a larger proportion of that spending stays within local communities.
Locally owned businesses employ and train local people and strong Christmas trading helps them get through the quieter winter months.
The Government is playing its part with the introduction of a local benefits test for all government contracts to give local suppliers and contractors a fairer go. This has already resulted in an increase in Tasmanian businesses winning government tenders.
We will also be continuing our buy local agenda throughout summer which includes our buy local marketing campaign to directly assist Tasmanian retailers and businesses.
Can I wish all Tasmanian businesses and their staff a prosperous and safe Festive Season.
More Media Releases from the Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Trade