The Labor Opposition will use online consultation to engage with Tasmanians over the Liberal Government’s proposed health reforms.

In line with a commitment made in this year’s State of the State Reply, Labor Leader Bryan Green today announced the first initiative for greater online engagement.

“We have plans to create a unique online policy development portal to better engage with Tasmanians,” Mr Green said.

In the meantime, Labor will use existing online consultation utility PlaceSpeak to engage on health reform.

“The debate over the Government’s proposed health reforms needs to occur now.

“The reforms on the table at the moment significantly affect the way people can access health services, particularly on the North West Coast.

“Tasmanians deserve to know exactly what is being proposed.

“Huge questions need to be answered when it comes to how these reforms are going to be funded.

“We want to hear from anyone with an interest in Tasmania’s public health system.

Mr Green was joined by Federal Shadow Communications Minister Jason Clare on the North West Coast to launch the initiative.

“I congratulate Bryan on leading the way with this innovative model of engaging with people on issues that are important to them,” Mr Clare said.

“Australians are becoming increasingly politically active online and it’s crucial that politicians pay attention to what’s being said.

“I encourage Tasmanians to take this opportunity to have their voice heard on an issue as important as health reform.

Mr Green encouraged Tasmanians to log on to www.placespeak.com/tasmaniahealth to participate in the discussion.

“At this stage we are asking very simple questions about people’s views and experience of the Tasmanian health system.

“Over the coming weeks the consultation will evolve to cover specific aspects of the proposed reform.

“While this method will be trialled in Opposition, we have every intention of maintaining the portal as part of a new Labor Government,” Mr Green said.
Bryan Green MP Labor Leader Jason Clare MP Federal Shadow Minister for Communications