From The Editor's Desk

Throughout its 179 years, The Examiner has run several campaigns encouraging Tasmanians to support producers, retailers and manufacturers in their own backyard.

They have been successful in supporting Northern Tasmanian commerce in times of need, such as the Global Financial Crisis, by residents buying local goods.

Spending money in Northern Tasmania at your local butchery or bakery, a Launceston-owned retailer or supplier, or eating at a family-run cafe or restaurant has significant benefits for the state economy.

As independent economist Saul Eslake describes, spending your hard-earned money matters in the long run.

"Buying a locally-made product makes it more likely that the spending that people undertake will generate employment within Australia and those profits will in turn circulate within the Australian community and will also generate tax revenue for Australian governments, which they can in turn spend," he said.

Buying local, not only at Christmas, is the best form of stimulus so it is important we all think about what we are buying and where the goods are made and brought.

If every Northern Tasmanian were to spend $100 a week at various Launceston stores, that would add up a lot of money staying in Australia and supporting local business and industries.

It could be the difference between your child getting their first job at a small business or not.

It could be the difference between your neighbour keeping their business open or closing their doors because the support is not there.

Some local items may be slightly more expensive, but nine times out of 10 the quality is superior and that little bit extra can make a huge difference.

So next time you go shopping, be it in town or online, spend local to support Tasmanian businesses and jobs.

And If you have Tasmanian business stories for our campaign please contact our business reporter Joshua Peach at joshua.peach@austcommunitymedia.com.au