Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce calls for state to scrap COVID tests

The call follows emerging concerns that the rules set to come into effect would leave tourists and Tasmanians out of pocket.

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Under the proposed regulations, anyone entering the state would need to provide a negative COVID-19 test 72 hours before flying into Tasmania and pay for that test themselves.

The push to loosen restrictions follows the inaugural Tasmanian Industry Summit, which brought together industry representatives from across the board to discuss the challenges they've faced this year.

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TCCI chief executive Michael Bailey said those at the summit had expressed clear concerns about the cost of COVID testing, particularly the tourism and hospitality industries.

"This [the requirement] is unique in Australia and a disincentive for people coming to our state," he said.

"What we're saying is let's just abolish it and take advantage of out 90 per cent vaccinate rate. Let's make it easy for people to come to the state," he added.

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If the testing restrictions do remain in place, Mr Bailey also called for cheaper but less accurate rapid antigen tests to be allowed instead.

In responses, a government spokesperson said pre-travel testing will only be in place for up to four weeks as a transitional measure, particularly from current high-risk area.

Despite the restrictions lasting just four weeks, Mr Bailey said they remain "impractical".

The cost of private testing usually runs around $150 per individual.

Following the summit, Mr Bailey also said business were unclear what their quarantine requirements were once borders open.

Likewise, Tasmanian Small Business Council chief executive Robert Mallet has called for clearer guidelines.

"What will happen if a business does get COVID? Small businesses in Tasmania at the busiest time of the year cannot afford to close for any time whatsoever," he added.

When asked, the government did not clarify whether a business would need to close if it was exposed to COVID-19 after December 15.

"In the event a business is declared an exposure site, they should contact the public health hotline in relation to their requirements," a government spokesperson said.

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