Andrew Scobie is new TCCI chairman

BUSINESSMAN and developer Andrew Scobie is the new chairman of Tasmania's peak business body, the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.Mr Scobie was elected unopposed at a TCCI Board meeting this morning and takes over from Michael Kent.Mr Scobie said that he was incredibly privileged to be elected to lead the voice of business in Tasmania.``For too long business in Tasmania has not been celebrated for the significant contribution it makes to the economy and our standard of living.``We need to foster a culture of entrepreneurship in Tasmania that recognises business as the prime wealth creator of society. ``A vibrant business community is essential to a healthy society.''Mr Scobie said the TCCI has a vision for an economic, social and environmentally sustainable Tasmania.The TCCI will make a constructive contribution that aims to provide the Tasmanian community with a standard of living at least equal to the national average.``We will be advocating for a business environment that is more competitive than the rest of nation.``Currently Tasmania is the net recipient of a $600 million subsidy from the rest of Australia. ``There is an inherent risk in an economy that relies on the charity of others for its own survival.``In my time as Chairman I have a long term goal to ensure Tasmania is put on a path of regional economic independence. ``This will guarantee that our destiny is in our own hands. We need to show that the Tasmanian economic tiger is not extinct.''Mr Scobie said that the TCCI was undertaking significant investment in policy and research to assist with the development of strategies to unlock the Tasmanian economy. Currently the TCCI has Invested $100,000 in a comprehensive review of State taxation and expenditure, led by Professor Sinclair Davidson of RMIT. Invested $120 000 in a wholesale review of Tasmania's planning system, led by Dr Stephen Beare of Concept Economics. Developed a plan for the establishment of Infrastructure Tasmania to coordinate long-term infrastructure planning and make submissions to Infrastructure Australia. Supported the establishment of the Tasmanian Education Foundation to promote the value of education throughout the Tasmania Community. Proposed strategies to reduce Tasmania's carbon emissions footprint and benefit from the transition to a low carbon economy. Made a substantial contribution to the Demographic Change Advisory Council about how to improve the productivity performance.Mr Scobie said the TCCI would work constructively with the government of the day to advance its policy agenda.``Making Tasmania the most competitive place to do business is a priority. ``Capitalising on our unique Tasmanian attributes is a strategy we must adopt to compensate for our inherent disadvantages such as isolation,'' Mr Scobie said.