Northern Tasmania's future development was the focus of the latest Beyond Boags Roundtable, which brought together representatives from business, government, community organisations and industry to discuss the region's biggest opportunities and challenges.
Held in Launceston, the forum provided an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas on how Northern Tasmania can continue to grow while maintaining its strong regional identity. Discussions centred on improving economic resilience, attracting investment, supporting local businesses and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with population growth.
Housing affordability emerged as one of the major issues raised during the roundtable. Participants highlighted the increasing demand for affordable housing across Northern Tasmania and stressed the need for greater collaboration between governments, developers and community organisations to boost housing supply and improve planning processes.
Healthcare was another significant topic, with attendees discussing workforce shortages, access to medical services and the importance of strengthening regional hospitals and primary healthcare. Ensuring residents can access quality healthcare close to home was identified as a key priority for maintaining vibrant regional communities.
Infrastructure investment also featured prominently during discussions. Participants emphasised the importance of improving roads, transport links, digital connectivity and public facilities to support future economic growth. Better infrastructure was seen as essential for attracting new businesses, encouraging tourism and creating employment opportunities across the region.
Education and workforce development were also highlighted as critical priorities. Business leaders discussed the importance of strengthening partnerships between schools, vocational training providers and employers to ensure young people have access to skills that match the needs of local industries. Building a skilled workforce was viewed as essential for supporting long-term regional prosperity.
The roundtable also explored ways to enhance tourism and promote Northern Tasmania as a destination for investment, innovation and lifestyle. Participants noted the region's natural attractions, agricultural strengths and growing food and beverage industries as valuable assets that can continue driving economic development.
Organisers described the event as an opportunity to bring diverse voices together to identify practical solutions rather than simply discussing problems. The collaborative approach aims to help shape future policy discussions and encourage stronger cooperation between government, industry and community groups.
The Beyond Boags Roundtable forms part of an ongoing conversation about Northern Tasmania's future, with organisers hoping ideas generated during the event will contribute to long-term planning and investment across the region.
Participants agreed that continued collaboration will be essential to addressing challenges while ensuring Northern Tasmania remains an attractive place to live, work and do business.
