Hobart is a great city — but like many growing cities, it faces real pressures. Rising costs, traffic congestion, slow approvals and uncertainty are holding back households, businesses and investment.

#GrowHobart is an initiative of the Hobart Chamber of Commerce calling on local government candidates in the upcoming elections in October 2026 to commit to practical, common-sense principles that support a stronger, more liveable city.

This is not about party politics. It’s about good governance, economic confidence and everyday reliability.

1. Fair, responsible rates

Council rates should remain affordable for households and businesses, while still funding essential services. Prosperity grows when ratepayers are treated with care and respect.

2. A council that champions business and investment

Strong local economies don’t happen by accident. Council policies should be shaped with business, creating an environment where enterprises can open, grow, employ and innovate without unnecessary red tape.

3. A city that moves

Congestion hurts everyone — workers, customers and residents alike. Hobart needs practical traffic solutions that keep people and goods moving and restore confidence in the city’s accessibility.

4. Timely, transparent development approvals

Builders, investors and small operators need certainty. Clear communication and predictable approval timeframes help projects get off the ground and keep the city growing responsibly.

5. Reliable waste and recycling services

Back-to-basics services matter. Consistent, dependable rubbish and recycling collection keeps Hobart clean, orderly and functioning as it should.

6. Respectful, collaborative leadership

Effective councils rely on trust and cooperation. Elected representatives should engage respectfully, communicate openly and work collaboratively — on and off the Council floor — to deliver better outcomes for Hobart.

In the lead-up to the October Local Government election, the Hobart Chamber of Commerce will invite candidates to publicly support these principles.

By committing to #GrowHobart, candidates signal their support for a city that is fair, functional and open for opportunity.

Because when Hobart grows well, everyone benefits.

Candidates seeking to publicly align with #GrowHobart are invited to contact us to express their interest.

Support for the #GrowHobart principles is not automatic. We reserve the right to determine which candidates may be recognised as formal supporters, based on alignment with the principles and a demonstrated commitment to constructive, responsible civic leadership.

We welcome engagement from candidates who share our vision for a thriving, well-governed Hobart.

admin@growhobart.au

© Hobart Chamber of Commerce 2026.