Staff cuts to TMAG

The Petition of the undersigned citizens of Tasmania draws to the attention of the House:

Since 1848, the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) has been central to the cultural, artistic, scientific and historic fabric of Tasmania.

TMAG is the guardian of the State Collection, with a legal obligation to care for approximately one million objects of inestimable value. Many are fragile and require constant vigilance and maintenance to prevent deterioration.

Occupying several sites, including early colonial buildings in Hobart, TMAG is integral to the local and state economy. It has an outstanding reputation which draws visitors and researchers and adds considerably to Tasmania's reputation.

TMAG has educated generations of Tasmanians and its collections underpin much of Tasmania's conservation, agricultural and biosecurity legislation.

There is widespread alarm over budget cuts to TMAG and a reduction of already over-stretched staff, including renowned local, national and international scientists, and staff who ensure quality exhibitions are presented to the public.

TMAG cannot afford further funding reductions or the loss of positions critical to fulfilling its legal obligation to care for the State Collection and present it to the community.

TMAG's infrastructure already faces challenges at both its Hobart and Rosny facilities.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to call on the Government to:

• Maintain funding so that all positions are retained and the skilled knowledge needed to preserve, make available for research and exhibit the State Collection is not lost.
• Invest in TMAG's buildings to ensure they are fit-for-purpose.