Both the Liberals and Labor went to the 2018 state election a population strategy. The policy that counts is the governing party. The Liberals set a target of 650,000 people by 2050.

The state government says the target would help to drive economic growth, create jobs and improve the standard of living for all Tasmanians.

According to the policy, there are 50 actions within three key areas - job creation and workforce development, migration, and liveability.

Matthew Groom, who was State Growth Minister at the time of policy, said to achieve the target would not be easy.

"We will need long term, coordinated action by all levels of government, industry and the community if we are to grow Tasmania's population and reach our target," he said.

The issue with a long-term strategy is the lack of immediate results. It's hard to bring people along for the ride when it is a 30-plus year plan with slow results.

A policy to grow the population comes with criticism. Health infrastructure and systemic problems coupled with Tasmania's ageing population is a concern for many. The lack of affordable housing also poses an issue during this conversation. And of course, parking becomes a concern whenever progress is mentioned.

We want to increase our population, but we need to attract the people we need, not just the people we want.

We cannot risk becoming a state for the retired. While that population is welcome, they do not add to the state's bottom line the same way professions, skilled workers and businesses based here in the state do.

With this addition to the economy, there is more in the kitty to invest in infrastructure and services.

With the right approach, and the best minds working on the issue, the outcomes could be a game changer for Tasmania and our way of life as Tasmanians.