Committee for Greater Hobart: Meet the new think-tank set to tackle the city’s growing pains

“It is essential that the community’s views are at the base of all decisions”: A new think-tank is set to tackle ongoing pressures on Hobart’s infrastructure, services, transport, housing and lifestyle.

Rob Pennicott speaks about the Committee for Greater Hobart and what are the potential areas for growth in the city. Picture: Chris Kidd

Philanthropist and tourism industry leader Robert Pennicott says a new community funded think-tank will be “essential” for shaping greater Hobart for future generations.

Pennicott Wilderness Journeys is a founding member of the high-powered Committee for Greater Hobart which wants to overcome a negative culture which it believes is hindering growth.

Mr Pennicott established his multi-award winning business 24 years ago and in 2011 set up the Pennicott Foundation which has contributed millions of dollars to community, environmental and humanitarian groups. Last financial year alone it funded 536 projects.

The father-of-three said it was important that the views of the community, particularly youth, were considered when planning for the medium to long-term.

“It’s good to have a group that is apolitical and can work with all levels of government and community stakeholders,” Mr Pennicott said.

“It is essential that the community’s views are at the base of all decisions.

“Sharing good, honest information with the community, and then taking into account everyone’s perspectives through genuine consultation, should give a balanced outcome.

“I wouldn’t be part of something that I didn’t have confidence in.”

Mr Pennicott, who now employs 100 people, said opportunities and challenges “go hand-in-hand”.

“Some of the topics I’m sure will be discussed will be the pressures we face as Greater Hobart continues to grow as a wanted place to live and work – pressures on infrastructure, services, transport, housing and our lifestyle will be a high priority,” he said.

Rob Pennicott speaks about the Committee for Greater Hobart and what are the potential areas for growth in the city. Picture: Chris Kidd

“We have to be sustainable and strategic to plan for future generations.”

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds is keen to meet with the new committee and examine its research.

“Cities are complex ecosystems and managing them can be made easier when there’s access to great research and clever policy ideas,” Ms Reynolds said.

“Local government has limited resources for undertaking new research and so I’m looking forward to seeing what the new Committee for Greater Hobart comes up with.

“These kind of committees are common in many capital cities.

“They seem to be most effective when they have a very diverse membership and are focused on delivering thought-leadership and quality research.”

The Committee for Greater Hobart is chaired by former senior bureaucrat and Hydro Tasmania head, Dr Dan Norton, with Danny Sutton the CEO.