Many small businesses in Hobart are just hanging on at the moment during this seemingly never-ending cost-of-living crisis. The latest challenge about to be landed at their feet are potential increased commercial rates from the Hobart City Council. By its own admission commercial rates will be higher under the new scheme proposed to calculate rates…

Confederation chair Edwin Johnstone supports the call from Ald Marti Zucco for a trial of live outdoor music on Sundays between midday and 8pm on Salamanca Place saying Salamanca Market has traditionally had live music, “so I see this move as long overdue”. “Salamanca is Hobart’s premier entertainment precinct, and we should always be looking…

In July of this year, I took over as Chair of the Confederation of Greater Hobart Business. In that time small businesses have been facing a very challenging environment. The problems they face range from the cost-of-living pressures, supply chain issues and skill shortages. While it is heartening to see so many small businesses in…

In response to the article from The Mercury journalist Alex Treacy suggesting that “Launceston is leaving Hobart in the dust”, let’s not fall for the same old North v South negativity. The $65m Novotel Hotel about to be completed is the fourth major hotel in Hobart to open in the last four years. These developments…

With just under a week remaining until Christmas, the Confederation of Greater Hobart Business is encouraging shoppers to shop locally on their gifts and holiday supplies. “Local businesses don’t have the huge turnover and resources of the bigger chains and may not be able to offer huge discounts, but shopping local offers an opportunity to…