10 February 2025

Guy Barnett, Treasurer

The 2024-25 Revised Estimates Report released today forecasts increased investment in Tasmania’s essential services, in particular our health system amidst rising demand.

Treasurer, Guy Barnett, said despite the challenges of meeting that demand, I am committed to delivering a surplus by 2029-30.

“The Report reflects additional health expenditure of $345 million,” the Treasurer said.

“This increase is directly impacted by the Federal Labor Government’s failure to meet their obligation of 45 per cent of the cost of servicing our hospitals. This failure represents a shortfall of approximately half a billion dollars over the last 10 years.

“We will always step up and support the demands on our health system."

The Report also forecasts increased investment in other essential services including:

  • $42 million to support operational requirements within the Department of Police, Fire and Emergency Management;
  • $19.5 million to support even more teachers to provide the education young Tasmanians need;
  • $11 million to boost support for our tourism and hospitality sector; and
  • $10.3 million in relief to communities hard hit in last year’s severe weather events.

“These are all important investments because we will always ensure Tasmanians have access to the services they need and deserve," the Treasurer said.

“We will also continue to identify ways to do things more efficiently, through improved productivity and innovation – providing Tasmanians with the confidence that every taxpayer dollar spent is spent well.

“Today’s report indicates that our economy is forecast to continue growing which is good news for jobs and business.

“Tasmania’s net debt is manageable and we will continue to invest in public services and economic-enabling infrastructure.

“I do not underestimate the task in preparing for the May budget but I can assure Tasmanians that as Treasurer, I will maintain a steel like resolve to deliver a budget surplus by 2029-30.

“Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is delivering positive outcomes for Tasmanians, and will secure our state as the best place to live, work, raise a family, invest and do business.

“Tasmanians will always enjoy a stronger economy under a Liberal Government, and a strong economy supports Tasmanian families."