TasCOSS has welcomed Premier Will Hodgman’s announcement today that West Coast residents and businesses will be the next to join the roll out of the Community Innovation and Investment Project.
The primary aim of the project is to support people in Tasmania’s regions to find workable solutions to issues surrounding accessing meaningful work in the area.
CEO of TasCOSS Kym Goodes said community-centred model has already begun in the Derwent Valley and is commencing in the South East.
“This series of projects recognises and respects the leadership, creativity and experiences of those who live in the regions chosen for the project.
“Communities and the people who live in them are the real experts on issues such as improving transport and connecting employers with job seekers. We have no doubt the people of the West Coast have ideas with the potential to enhance the resilience and vitality of their region and its communities.”
“The model draws on innovative community development strategies including co-design and Emerging Voices, both of which work to increase the capacity of local communities to realise the power they have in local decision making.
“We know meaningful employment, good health and education outcomes, and renewed participation of all Tasmanians both socially and economically are key drivers to real, lasting and significant change,” Ms Goodes said.
“Importantly, this announcement acknowledges that local people know their communities best, know what will make a difference, but do not always have the necessary resources to effect the change they want and need.
“Government is best positioned to provide the leadership and social vision that will guide action to ensure that all Tasmanians thrive. By bringing together community, community sector and business and sharing innovative approaches and decision making on employment outcomes, we can be sure Tasmania is united and working together to reduce inequality and disadvantage.”