Service Tasmania contact centre cuts will fuel digital divide, MP says
Older Tasmanians and those least familiar with digital services will likely be impacted by a state government proposal to reduce the contact hours at five regional Service Tasmania centres, a mayor says.
The Tasmanian state government plans to reduce the operating hours of five Service Tasmania centres by up to half, sparking concerns over the potential digital divide affecting Tasmanians. The proposal, set to receive consultation for three weeks starting Monday, has been criticized by local politicians and the Flinders Island mayor, who highlighted the challenges faced by older residents and those with limited internet access.
The service centres in question, including Whitemark on the Bass Strait islands, currently operate at reduced hours and face further limitations if the proposed changes are implemented. The government contends that no jobs will be lost, with existing staff contributing remotely, and asserts that customer preferences have evolved, necessitating a review of service delivery methods.
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