The Tasmanian Government’s number one priority is to keep Tasmanians safe and secure during the coronavirus pandemic.

We know the impacts of coronavirus will be with us for some time, and it’s important we continue to balance the health and safety of Tasmanians by having in place appropriate restrictions to maintain distancing, while also taking steps to reboot our economy, grow business confidence, create opportunity for investment and generate jobs.

As part of our plan to rebuild a stronger Tasmania the Government established the Premier’s Economic and Social Recovery Advisory Council (PESRAC).

The Council’s role is to provide advice to the Government on strategies and initiatives to support the short to medium, and the longer term recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Peter Gutwein received today the Recovery Council’s interim report to the Tasmanian Government, which contains 64 recommendations for consideration.

“The Interim Report provides the opportunity for the Government and the community to consider the Council’s recommendations ahead of the November Budget and will help guide future decisions for rebuilding a stronger Tasmania,” he said.

“In particular the Report outlines ways to help restore demand and jobs, address structural issues as a result of the impacts across sectors, and recommendations on government delivery methods to enhance coordination and long term delivery benefits.

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank the members of the Council who have all used their experience, knowledge and expertise in compiling such a comprehensive report.” Premier Gutwein said.

PESRAC Chair Don Challen said that in approaching the first phase of this task, the Council sought first to listen and learn.

“Through submissions and data review, we have learned a lot and begun to understand the impacts of COVID-19 on Tasmanians,” he said.

Mr Challen said work will now commence on Phase Two, which will involve medium to long term strategic recovery.

“We will be consulting with the community in that process and revisiting longer-term elements of submissions already received,” Mr Challen said.

The Interim Report is available at:  www.pesrac.tas.gov.au