The Tasmanian Government has delivered on the things that matter most to Tasmanians this year, including record cost of living relief.
Minister for Community Services, Roger Jaensch, said the Government's 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future is developing stronger communities and enhancing our regions.
"We recognise the cost-of-living pressures on most Tasmanian families, and the enormous efforts by our community groups in supporting those who need it most through these tough times.
"Our cost-of-living relief measures have provided thousands of Tasmanians with the additional support they need, including our energy bill relief payments, our half price public transport fares and our health school lunch program.
"By expanding the No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS), we've been able to help up to 2,000 more Tasmanians with no-interest loans over the next three years. These loans are helping those who may experience hardship but not have the ability to make payment at the time.
"We've also provided significant energy bill relief, including our expanded and highly successful Energy Saver Subsidy, which provides a direct 50 per cent subsidy on the cost of an energy efficient appliance, like a fridge, freezer or washing machine, for low-income Tasmanians if coupled with a NILS no-interest loan for the balance.
"When disaster strikes, our Government will always be there for Tasmanians. This was the case during the recent wild weather where more than 6,000 Tasmanians received emergency relief grants, with more than $2 million paid into the pockets of Tasmanians.
"It's during these times, our community groups and neighbourhood houses pull together to support our most vulnerable and the work of Foodbank and Loaves and Fishes should be commended.
"This year, we provided an extra $1.7 million for our vital neighbourhood houses – which is $50,000 per house. In addition, we continue to invest in our valued community organisations such as the 'Hood in the Hub community garden initiative' at Warrane Mornington Neighbourhood Centre and the Jordan River Service Inc Waterbridge Community Pantry and Café.
"We have backed our Men's Sheds right across the State with new funding opportunities for upgrades, tools and equipment so they can continue to bring people together.
"And we have progressed our nation-first Ticket to Wellbeing program for seniors, making physical and wellness activities more accessible and affordable for people over the age of 65."
The Tasmanian Government has also provided our community services with the certainty they need for the next four years, increases their funding by 3.5 per cent in 2024-25, and a further 3 per cent each year for three years following.
"By supporting these much-loved organisations and services, we continue to develop a stronger sense of community which is what our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future is all about," Minister Jaensch said.
The Tasmanian Government will continue to take action on the things that matter to Tasmanians, and support those who need it most.
