The cities of Hobart and Launceston have announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive closer ties between the cities.

 

Following the MoU, the two Councils held a joint meeting a working group comprising representatives from both Councils.   Discussions centred on setting priorities for collaboration for the year ahead.

 

The Lord Mayor of the City of Hobart, Alderman Damon Thomas said,  “This MOU recognises that the Hobart City Council and Launceston City Councils comprise the two major centres of business, commerce and government in Tasmania and they support the majority of the state's population.”

 

The joint working party agreed to five key actions:

 

  • The two Councils acknowledged that freight costs are a major economic impediment for Tasmanian producers.  Both Councils agreed to conduct joint lobbying in relation to the Freight Equalisation Scheme, and to play a strong advocacy role in putting Tasmanian producers on a more even footing with their mainland counterparts.
  • The two Councils will engage key stakeholders to develop a masterplan for AFL in Tasmania.   The Councils will engage with the State Government and the AFL seeking support for the common objectives established to grow AFL in Tasmania.
  • The City Councils acknowledged that Chinese heritage within the two cities was a significant cultural, economic and social advantage.  It was agreed that the Councils pursue dialogue aimed at internationalisation with China by way of artist-in-residence programs and musical and dance exchanges.  The Councils also agreed to investigate cross-market opportunities.
  • Both Councils have strong schedules of events during the year and it was agreed that it would be in the best interests of Tasmania to cross-market and coordinate such events, maximising yield to the Tasmanian economy.
  • Both Councils believe that the significance of the economic activity within Hobart and Launceston is understated in State Government policy discussions.  The Council agreed to work together to gather facts and present a case to the State Government regarding the contribution of the cities to the State's economy.

 

The joint working party will meet again in December.