Support for Tasmanian hospitality – a sector that cannot be taken for granted

Tasmania’s hospitality industry is a vital part of our economy, supporting thousands of jobs, local businesses, tourism, live music, and the vibrancy of our communities.

But great hospitality doesn’t happen by accident.

A motion moved by Labor in the Legislative Council today recognises this – it’s disappointing the Liberals do not and voted against.

Tasmania’s hospitality operators are under immense pressure, squeezed from all sides as the cost of doing business, and the cost of living, continues to climb. 

The collapse and closure of Pub Banc’s seven Hobart venues, and the impending departure of Boag’s from Launceston is a great loss and will have ripple effects felt across the state.  

Business owners, industry bodies, workers, and communities are waiting on all levels of government to deliver on their word to lower costs and cut unnecessary red tape.

Labor’s motion calls on the government to provide the certainty the industry needs to grow, employ, and invest with confidence. 

That means modernising our outdated liquor laws, streamlining approvals, supporting live music and cultural precincts, improving late-night transport, and creating more family-friendly and diverse night-time experiences.

Tasmania is an extraordinary place to live and visit because it is home to extraordinary people. 

It is the passion of our people and pride in our produce, restaurants, cafes, pubs, wineries, breweries, distilleries, festivals, museums, markets and experiences, that make our state a richer place to live, driving our visitor economy, and allowing Tasmanian hospitality a place on the world stage.

Our hospitality economy can be one of Tasmania’s greatest strengths for generations to come – but only if we continue investing in the industry and people whose skill, warmth, and professionalism shape how we experience our state.