EDITORIAL
Minister for Hospitality and Small Business Jane Howlett
Support for Tasmania’s small businesses by the Tas- manian Government could not be clearer following a month of red tape reduction announcements. The response of peak bodies such as the Tasmanian Small Business Council, the Tasmanian Hospitality As- sociation and the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to red tape reduction efforts demon- strates the Government’s efforts to reducing red tape are in line with industry goals. We have responded to consultation with industry ad- vocacy groups by slashing red tape by modernising systems to make it simpler, faster and fairer for every- one. When it comes to doing business, we are making it easier to apply for and manage liquor licences. We are providing new event permits to make it easier for events such as music festivals, food and wine expos and community gathers to get off the ground. Small businesses like boutique distilleries, wineries, breweries and tourism operators will have licences that suit their needs. We’re making common sense changes that benefit businesses and the community. The changes have extended to reducing the complex- ity associated with Tasmanian Government contracts, allowing businesses to tender for Government work with a single form. Other initiatives include a new Small Business Start- Up Permit which will enable small businesses to trial their concept for 12 months with a single permit. These initiatives do not stand alone. The Tasmanian Government has built and maintained a 10-year com- mitment to cut red tape, and the 2023-24 Red Tape Re- duction Report showed 86 per cent of the 198 red tape issues identified had been resolved. Every time we remove unnecessary regulation, time and resources are saved, clearing the path for busi- nesses and industry to grow and thrive.
tor for a Red Tape Reduction Industry Taskforce that will help us to slash red tape and deliver real outcomes.
This taskforce, along with the new red tape reduction portal online, will allow Tasmanians and businesses to directly provide feedback on red tape reduction ideas. We have done a lot to reduce the red tape experienced by businesses in Tasmania, but we can always do bet- ter and we will do better by continuing to consult with industry and stakeholders. A new red tape reduction portal has been launched, encouraging Tasmanians to have their say on what red tape is holding Tasmanian businesses and industry back. We want to know about these things and I encourage businesses or individuals who feel they are being held back by red tape they can report it to the Red Tape Re- duction Portal. The news across the board for our business sector is good. Record breaking occupancy rates for February in the North West is something to be celebrated. The NAB Monthly Business Survey released recently showed Tasmania has topped the nation in business confidence and ranked second in business conditions, only just behind Queensland and well ahead of the na- tional average. Retail trade in Tasmania reached an all time high in January and again in February, which is money in the back pocket of our businesses, allowing them to invest and grow. Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future we will continue to deliver a stronger economy for all Tasmanians. An economy supported by a Government that backs business and backs jobs for continued growth and more connected communities. I want to thank Steve Old and the THA team and mem- bers who have been actively engaged in this red tape cutting process and I look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.
To further these efforts, we are bringing together the best minds from across the business and industry sec-
15 Tasmanian Hospitality Review Apr/May Edition
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