A strong, inclusive Tasmania with rewarding jobs possible for all

Tasmania must become a strong, inclusive State where everyone has the opportunity to work, according to TasCOSS.

TasCOSS CEO Kym Goodes said Tasmania needed to tackle its urgent social and economic issues so we can get to work creating a future that includes rewarding work for all Tasmanians.

“Short term analysis of today’s ABS jobs statistics should not be a distraction from focusing on real solutions for the 16,000 Tasmanian job seekers looking for work in a market advertising only 2000 jobs each month,” Ms Goodes said.

“This is about long term change: Whole of system reform underpinned by long-term trends. We know this is a major challenge and are determined to work with those who recognise this to change Tasmania’s future for the better.

“We cannot continue to approach this issue the same old way and expect to get different results. We must stop blaming individuals and change structures to create opportunities.

“Policy experts, business representatives, entrepreneurs and others have all been busy in this space during the past few weeks, putting a framework in place for real change.

“We recognise we must disrupt the endless cycle that has Tasmanians on course for a jobless generation: this is not the way we want life to be for our children.”

Ms Goodes said solutions to employment issues rose above any one interest group or industry sector, and needed to be future focused and strategic, based on an overarching vision for Tasmania.

“TasCOSS, the TCCI and many others are working together to look proactively at solutions.

“We will continue to work together to progress towards our common vision; that all Tasmanians have the opportunity to participate, socially and economically.

“We will work with the community and business to progress action on this regardless of the position of the Government, we are listening and demonstrating leadership on the most critical issue Tasmania faces.”
TasCOSS CEO Kym Goodes