Charities cutting services because of financial pressures
Nearly half of Tasmania's community support organisations said they've had to cut services due to cost pressures, new data shows.
Nearly half of Tasmania's community service organisations have had to cut services due to financial pressures, according to a recent survey by the Tasmanian Council of Social Service (TasCOSS). The 2026 Tasmanian Community Services Pulse Check surveyed over 100 organisations, revealing that 60% turned people away in the past year and more than 80% experienced increased demand for services despite limited resources.
TasCOSS warns that organisations could be forced to reduce staff, cut operating hours or turn people away if funding doesn't change. The council calls for better indexation and increased funding to keep up with rising costs, which have outpaced wage increases. Community services are crucial, providing essential support like housing, food relief and social connections.
Some organisations, like Jordan River Service, have had to cut programs and reduce hours to stay financially viable. The Tasmanian government acknowledges rising costs and has invested $650 million into community organisations, but acknowledges the need for sustainable funding models and longer-term agreements.
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