In response to advice from the Premier’s Health and Wellbeing Council, an updated Tasmania Statement was signed today by Premier Peter Gutwein, Deputy Premier and Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Jeremy Rockliff, and Council Chair Graeme Lynch.
The updated agreement directly references the impact of climate change on the wellbeing of people, acknowledging the need to continue taking practical action on climate change because of its impact on the health and wellbeing of Tasmanians.
Premier Peter Gutwein said the updated Statement demonstrates the Tasmanian Government’s commitment to improve health and wellbeing, both now and into the future.
“The Tasmania Agreement, first signed in 2019, is a fundamental document that supports our commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of every Tasmanian,” the Premier said.
“This update appropriately recognises that climate change is an important issue for many Tasmanians, and while we are already a leader in climate action, having achieved our net zero emissions target the last five years in a row, we know that more needs to be done.
“Our climate change Act and target is under review, and we are developing a new climate action plan. Consultation on both demonstrated that Tasmanians are seeking more ambitious climate action, and programs to build community resilience and address health and wellbeing risks in a changing climate.
“We are currently working through this process, with a view to releasing the independent review of the Act, a new target, and our new action plan later this year, as we continue to secure our future."
Deputy Premier and Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Jeremy Rockliff said today’s re-signing reaffirms our ongoing commitment to the Agreement and the principles it promotes.
“The agreement recognises the importance of education, housing, and employment to Tasmanians, with climate change now appropriately recognised as well,” Minister Rockliff said.
“It reaffirms our health reform agenda and the Government’s goal to improve the health and wellbeing of all Tasmanians.