A four-year-old boy has died after being struck by a garbage truck outside his Newnham home

Tasmania Police Inspector Ruth Orr said it was still unknown exactly how the collision unfolded.

"We are unclear as to exactly how this tragic circumstance has happened, but the four-year-old boy has collided with the front of the rubbish truck and has died at the scene," she said.

"This is an absolute tragedy for everybody concerned, and a range of agencies, including police and emergency services have attended the scene to investigate exactly what happened."

Crash investigators and police spent the afternoon at the Newnham address, with forensics, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and WorkSafe Tasmania assisting the ongoing investigation.

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Inspector Orr said the incident was heartbreaking, and the most confronting scene she had attended in her career.

Counselling and support is being offered to those involved.

"We've already started that process today," Inspector Orr said.

"In relation to any civilian people, eyewitnesses, family and those sort of people that are going to be affected as well, there are avenues and people we can put them in touch with as well.

"I'm also aware that the driver will be offered support through his employer."

The driver of the garbage truck is assisting police with inquiries.

"The driver of the truck was exceptionally shaken up and I would suggest in shock which is understandable, this is really upsetting for everybody concerned," Inspector Orr said.

Inspector Orr asked for privacy for the family.

"The investigation will be very thorough, it's going to take some time," she said.

"I don't have any words to describe how upset the family are.

"It's a really tragic situation, particularly for this young boy's privacy, I would ask for privacy and respect for the family and residents of Bishops Drive during this time."

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