The Tasmanian Council of Social Service (TasCOSS) has provided a voice for low-income and disadvantaged Tasmanians for over 40 years.

Throughout its history, TasCOSS' priority areas of focus have included affordable housing, health and community services, employment and income support, education and youth issues, public transport, disability issues, mental health, family support, and services to Tasmanians affected by problem gambling, alcohol, drug and other addictions.

TasCOSS' current social policy focus is on the drivers of disadvantage and poverty in Tasmania. This includes:
Employment;
Housing Affordability;
Healthcare;    
Education and Training, and:
Social Infrastructure and Services. 

Consultation
As a member based organisation, TasCOSS' policy development processes are based on solid consultation with its members and constituent organisations.

Tasmanian Social Policy Council
The Tasmanian Social Policy Council (TSPC) is TasCOSS’ peak social policy development body. The Council is chaired by the President of TasCOSS and its membership is representative of TasCOSS’ members in the Tasmanian Community Services Industry.

The TSPC is responsible for determining TasCOSS’ major policy positions and establishing the priority social issues that TasCOSS pursues. It also assists the work of the TasCOSS Social Policy and Research Unit, in developing social policy positions that are grounded in solid consultation and represent the interests of the Community Services Industry and its clients.

State Budget Priority Statements (BPS)
Each year, TasCOSS produces a major submission to the Tasmanian Government's state budget process. The BPS seeks to represent the community sectors priority areas for further government investment and attention through the annual state budget.

The recommendations and priorities in TasCOSS BPS are developed in consultation with the Tasmanian Social Policy Council and endorsed by the TasCOSS board.

Click here to view TasCOSS' budget priority statements.

Representing low-income and disadvantaged Tasmanians
TasCOSS' represents the Community Services Industry and its clients on various Tasmanian and National consumer forums, committees, reference groups and consultative groups. It also regularly prepares submissions to relevant government and non-government inquiries and consultative processes.