The Tasmanian Government has released a new population policy aimed at keeping more young people in the state and attracting others to the island.
International migration is a key component of the latest Tasmanian Population Policy, which was released on Wednesday.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the state reached its 2030 population target of 570,000 people eight years earlier than expected, but the median age of 42 is still four years older than the national average.
The new policy aims to achieve a balanced age demographic as the state works towards its target of 650,000 people by 2050.
“Two of Tasmania’s greatest economic challenges are that we are an isolated island state and we have an ageing population,” Rockliff said.
“Since the release of the 2015 Population Strategy we have seen a net increase in 25 to 34-year-olds, with more young people and families choosing to make Tasmania their home.”
Rockliff said the policy’s goal is to retain young people and attract others from overseas, particularly through skilled migration.
The policy focuses on three main areas across liveability, sustainability and people and skills.
“Balanced population growth will see an increase in the proportion of younger families and working-aged residents, largely made up of international migration,” the policy states.
“Skilled migration, matched to the needs of the workforce, brings many benefits to our communities and the economy.
“This is also likely to support the rate of natural increase and will help to offset Tasmania’s structural ageing, an issue experienced worldwide.”
Rockliff said the government is committed to building cities and towns suited for growing families and developing a workforce to enhance the state’s skills base.
“We acknowledge the significant contribution older Tasmanians make. They add vibrancy and experience in our workplaces and communities, go above and beyond as volunteers and so often assist and support our growing families,” he said.
“But what we also know is that we need young people to continue to achieve our goals as a state and I am excited about embarking on this longer term, strategic outlook to make Tasmania the best place to live, work and raise a family.”
“We will deliver this renewed focus while still supporting Tasmanians of all ages and stages of life.”
