No jobs will be lost in the shake-up of the state service, promises Premier Peter Gutwein, in a restructuring that will see the abolishment of the four-year old Communities Tasmania department.
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As part of the public service changes two of Tasmania's key political and social issues in the state will impacted by the changes, being child protection and housing.
The government's latest move will see the new Department of Education, Children and Young People become responsible for children's welfare and foster services.
As well as the newly named and busier education department, a new statutory authority will be created to oversee housing in the state, with the hope it can can assist Tasmania's housing crisis, including supply and affordability.
Some of Communities Tasmania other responsibilities include disability, family and domestic violence, aboriginal affairs, veterans affairs and sports and recreation.
The changes have Labor worried some public services will be left out in the cold.
"Labor has concerns about several aspects of this, including the movement of children and youth matters...particularly given the significant work of the Commission of Inquiry into the Tasmanian Government's Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Institutional settings.
"And, with child safety under significant pressure for some time and increased resources urgently needed, the Premier's commitment to no job cuts is simply not good enough."
Childrens Commissioner Leanne McLean, who was only briefed today on the changes to child services, said funding was critical, but if properly implemented could lead to better outcomes for children.
Despite not being told earlier about the changes, the Commissioner has agreed to play an advisory role during a six month transition period for the changes to come into full effect.
The changes will be phased in from July 1 this year to be completed by 30 September.
"This is a unique opportunity to create a more child-centred service system, and, if properly implemented and funded, will lead to improved and enduring wellbeing outcomes for Tasmania's children and young people," Ms Mclean said.
Premier Peter Gutwein said the abolishment of Communites Tasmania would not affect the Commission of Inquiry, with hearings to begin in May.
He said the goverment's latest shake up followed recommendations made by Dr Ian Watt as part of the State Service Review.
"The change will ensure our systems, policies, processes and procedures are strong, consistent and build a culture where a child's development, education and their safety, is everyone's responsibility - from when a child is born, to when they complete their education and training," Mr Gutwein said.
"Particularly in relation to the current siloed approach of our departmental structures, we will strengthen our departmental administrative structure to deliver better services and outcomes for children, young people, individuals and families.
"Importantly, this isn't about efficiencies, and no one will lose their job. In fact there will be increased investment across these services."
Community Tasmania's other functions, including disability services, family and sexual violence, women, aboriginal affairs, veterans affairs and other community services move to the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
Sport and recreation will be transfered in State Growth.
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