Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery faces job cuts amid budget squeeze
The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) reports that the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) in Hobart may see nearly 20 full-time positions eliminated. Staff were notified that 19.7 full-time-equivalent roles could be cut, which represents approximately 30% of TMAG's workforce of 50 to 75 employees. Deputy Premier Guy Barnett refuted claims of a mandated 30% reduction by the Tasmanian Liberal government, labeling the assertion as 'false.' Meanwhile, Arts Minister Roger Jaensch acknowledged job reductions within the department that oversees TMAG but clarified that there is 'no direct formula' for determining TMAG's portion. The CPSU raised alarms about potential staffing shortages impacting gallery operations. These layoffs are part of a broader public service restructuring aimed at reducing around 1800 jobs by 2032.
Key facts
- TMAG faces potential cuts of 19.7 full-time-equivalent positions, about 30% of its workforce.
- CPSU claims staff were told in an online meeting last week.
- Tasmanian Government denies the 30% figure, but provides no alternative number.
- Deputy Premier Guy Barnett called the union's claim 'false'.
- Arts Minister Roger Jaensch confirmed job cuts in the department but said no direct formula applies to TMAG.
- Labor MP Meg Brown raised the issue in Parliament on 1 September.
- TMAG is responsible for nearly one million items and had over 280,000 visitors in 2024-25.
- Cuts are part of a wider public service restructure, with Treasurer Eric Abetz targeting 1800 job cuts by 2032.
Entities
Institutions
- Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
- Community and Public Sector Union
- Unions Tasmania
- ABC News
- Pulse Tasmania
- Department of State Growth
- Building Tasmania
- Department of Premier and Cabinet
- Screen Tasmania
- TasTAFE
Locations
- Hobart
- Australia
- Tasmania
- Rosny