There is a lot to love about Tasmania.
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The scenery, the people, the food, the state's unique identity.
But there are undeniable social and economic problems, and obvious solutions that are painstakingly delayed or awarded inadequate attention.
Our public transport system does not lend itself to an economy spanning across a vast, agricultural state.
For those outside Launceston and Hobart, the situation is particularly dire.
People on the outskirts of our cities also struggle, as a transportation system with limited hours automatically eliminates many employment opportunities.
The Tasmanian Council of Social Service's transport budget priorities reported that a trip between Burnie and Devonport, a 40 minute car ride, took two hours on two bus companies.
The document reports a Queenstown resident attending the UTAS Cradle Coast would travel for 7.5 hours via bus using three different operators to get to university.
The trip takes about two hours by car.
Infrastructure overhauls are expensive and logistically complicated.
But even more complications arise from struggling employment and education outcomes.
Despite significant tourism growth in terms of tourism, our state still struggles compared with our mainland counterparts.
Tasmanians who move to regional areas often do so because it is a cheaper option, and they may not be able to afford a car.
They are financially uncomfortable and geographically on the edge of isolation, and any problems are compounded by social segregation.
Public transport is an issue that needs significant and strategic attention if Tasmania really hopes to achieve lasting change and growth.
- TAMARA McDONALD