Jess Teesdale (Bass, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On 20 August in Scottsdale at the heart of Dorset, I hosted my first regional roundtable as the member for Bass. I was joined by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon. Julie Collins, and together we sat down with farmers, small-business operators, community leaders and the Dorset Council to discuss the future of north-east Tasmania.

What struck me most is that Dorset is a community that knows its strengths and is ready to shape its own future. People welcomed the opportunity for Canberra to listen, and they made it clear what matters most. We heard about the significant issues: food security, freight, infrastructure, youth engagement and biosecurity. These are not abstract policy debates; these are daily realities for farmers, producers and businesses across our region.

Farmers spoke about the pressures of changing land and environment. Businesses explained how they have been held back because they couldn't find the workers they need in regional locations. There was a clear call for more practical education options and training pathways to keep our young people in agriculture. Equally we talked about the services that hold communities together. Access to child care, mental health support and volunteers are not extras; they're the backbone of resilient towns. Without them, families can't get ahead and businesses cannot thrive.

I particularly want to acknowledge those who joined the roundtable. Thank you to TasFarmers for giving a voice to our primary producers. Thank you to Rural Business Tasmania, who brought insights into the challenges of small farming enterprises. Thank you to Better Health 4 Dorset, who reminded us that good health and mental health support are essential to strong rural communities; Dorset Employment Connect, who underlined the importance of effective local job pathways; and Dorset neighbourhood house—who do exceptional work—who reminded us about the importance of looking after those who are our most vulnerable. Together with farming families, community organisations, the Mayor of Dorset Council and the Deputy Mayor of Dorset Council, these groups painted a picture of resilience, determination and opportunities for growth in their future.

Dorset's story is Tasmania's story. It's full of opportunity, but it needs investment in people, services and infrastructure. I'm proud to say that our Albanese Labor government is delivering on that front. We've put in free TAFE for agricultural training, which is going exceptionally well for our regional communities. We've put in a record investment for housing, and I'm looking forward to working with Dorset Council to see how we can keep going with that in their area. We've put money into stronger community services and mental health support. We know we're on the right track, and I know that we cannot stop there.

My commitment is clear: the people of north-east Tasmania will be heard here in Canberra.