State’s public holidays under review as Premier seeking to avoid confusion and inconsistency

A review of the state’s public holidays will be released soon, although the Premier says nobody will end up worse off under any changes.

A REVIEW of the state’s public holidays will be released soon, although Premier Will Hodgman says nobody will end up worse off under the changes that result.

Business groups have called for a consolidation and simplification of the state’s list of public holidays, which include a series of regional full and part-day holidays.

BACKING FOR SHAKE-UP OF STATE’S PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Tasmanians enjoy nine core public holidays, plus additional days for local horse races and shows plus the Hobart Regatta or Recreation Day.

Premier Will Hodgman. Picture: AAP

Mr Hodgman said the Justice Department had been conducting a review with a mind to bring public holidays more closely into line with other states. Details of the review have not previously been made public.

“Certainly there’s inconsistency across our state that does cause some confusion — not only for visitors but business also has concerns about those inconsistencies,” he said.

“We have no plans to reduce the amount of public holidays that Tasmanians enjoy but if we can get greater consistency and match or align with other jurisdictions then we should look at it if that’s possible.

“I would hope as soon as possible I can get further advice as to its progress but that work is under way. Having some consistency across our state at least in matching with other jurisdictions is well worth looking at, that’s why we’re undertaking the review.”

Labor’s workplace relations spokeswoman Michelle O’Byrne said the Opposition was open to the idea of reform.

“Labor would support a review into Tasmania’s public holidays as long as this involves thorough consultation with the community,” she said.

“We would not support any reduction in the number of public holidays as we don’t think there is appetite in Tasmania for this.”

A government spokesman later clarified Mr Hodgman’s comments around a review.

“The Government is currently undertaking some initial work on this issue,” the spokesman said.

“When further advice is received, the Government will consider the most appropriate pathway forward.

“The Government understands that regional events and associated holidays are important to many communities, so no decision on changes to public holidays will be made without the opportunity for Tasmanians to have their say.”