Proposed Cuts to Service Tasmania Hours Raise Concerns Over Accessibility

The Tasmanian government's proposal to reduce face-to-face operating hours at five Service Tasmania centres has sparked apprehension, particularly among older residents and those less comfortable with digital services. Critics argue that these changes could deepen the digital divide in regional communities.

Changes to Operating Hours

Under the proposed restructuring, Service Tasmania centres in Queenstown, Oatlands, Campbell Town, Whitemark, and Currie may see their operating hours slashed by up to 50%. Currently, the Whitemark centre operates just two days a week, and if the proposal goes through, it would drop from 20 hours to just 10 each week.

Impact on Regional Communities

Flinders Island Mayor Rachel Summers, who has firsthand experience in customer service, expressed her concerns over the potential impact on her isolated community. She stated that the proposed changes would further limit access for residents who already face long distances to reach the centre. "Government talk on forms and information sheets can be quite difficult to understand," she said, emphasizing the importance of in-person assistance.

Government's Justification

Premier Jeremy Rockliff defended the proposed reductions, citing a two-year analysis of customer visitation data that indicated significantly lower demand for the current operating hours. He acknowledged that while many Tasmanians still depend on in-person services, the government must adapt to evolving customer preferences. Consultation on the proposed changes will be open for three weeks, allowing residents to voice their opinions on the future of these essential services.

Source: www.abc.net.au