The Competition Index provides an objective assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of undertaking business in Tasmania relative to the other Australian states and territories and, in some cases, New Zealand.

Compared with other jurisdictions, Tasmania has a number of cost advantages for businesses, such as low labour costs, a stable workforce, low land and accommodation costs and good port access. Since 2003, Tasmania has improved its ranking (and maintained its improved rankings) for 12 indices. Overall, in 2005 Tasmania is ranked most favourably (ranked 1) for 11 of the 33 indices. A comparison with New Zealand has been included in the Competition Index since 2003. New Zealand’s proximity and similarity to Australia means that it is likely to be considered as a possible alternative location for some businesses in the region.

The full report, titled The Competition Index 2005: An Inter-Jurisdictional Comparison, is available on the Department of Treasury and Finance website, www.treasury.tas.gov.au.
The most recent full version of Competition Index, along with previous years, is available on the Department of Treasury and Finance website.