Business industry summit delivers solutions

A newly established industry summit with the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and other key industry associations has addressed emerging issues, opportunities and challenges.

Held in Hobart today for its first biannual sitting, the summit brings together leading industry bodies to discuss critical business priorities including cutting red tape and future economic opportunities.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the industry summit was an opportunity to build strong collaborative relationships between Government and business.

“I want to acknowledge all those who attended today’s event,” Premier Rockliff said.

“Some of the best minds across industry have shared ideas, highlighted opportunities and worked through challenges as part of the summit.

“Our Government is delivering for Tasmania by keeping our economy strong and supporting job creation.

“By working together with industry we can continue to take our State forward.”

Representatives at the forum included key industry bodies across tourism, hospitality, information and communications technology, mining, exploration, mineral processing, energy, and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Discussion topics included red tape reduction, workforce pressures, Project Marinus, and delivery and communication across the public service.

Outcomes of the summit:

• An independent evaluation of TasWater and EPA Trade Waste Regulations will be undertaken to review and make recommendations on updating TasWater and EPA regulations and the legislative framework to create a contemporary and sustainable pathway to meeting environmental standards consistent with the needs of industry.
• Announce changes to the Electricity Supply Industry Amendment Regulations 2025 to deliver an improved approval process for underground power connections for private residences through TasNetworks, as part of the Government’s War on Red Tape
• A separate forum on Network connections will be held to bring TasNetworks and industry together to further enhance collaboration.

Premier Rockliff said the Tasmanian Government was also working towards establishing a Government Business Charter in partnership with the TCCI to support stronger collaboration between business and government.

“The draft framework of the charter is well underway and, once delivered, will strengthen the Tasmanian Government’s link to Tasmanian businesses,” Premier Rockliff said.

TCCI chair Wayne Davy welcomed the inaugural biannual industry summit with the Premier and key members of the Tasmanian Government.

“Ensuring regular feedback between Government and industry is critical to keeping our economy strong, cutting red tape and continuing to deliver business-friendly conditions,” Mr Davy said.

“The inaugural summit has already delivered commonsense solutions for the business sector.

“We look forward to having even greater industry presence at the next summit, which will be held in the State’s North.”