It is the policy of the Tasmanian Government to:
1. Provide accurate, timely, relevant and understandable information to the public about its policies, programs, services and initiatives.
The Government has a clear responsibility to ensure that information about its policies, programs, services and initiatives is disseminated or made available to people throughout Tasmania. Such information is required for access to government programs and services.
2. Use a variety of methods to communicate, and to provide information in formats that accommodate the needs of all citizens.
The Government recognises that not all individuals or groups within the community are equally well placed to gain access to government information. A range of communication channels and tools should therefore be used, appropriate to the information needs and capacities of the target audience(s).
3. Engage with the public when establishing priorities, developing policies, and planning programs and services.
Open and responsive communications and a consultative process with the community are vital for effective public policy development and gaining public support for decisions. This requires a partnership approach with the community and ensures that government explains, communicates and gets feedback from the community.
4. Ensure that the Tasmanian Government is visible, accessible and accountable to the public.
Clear and consistent branding enables the public to recognise Tasmanian Government activities, and to improve service to the public by facilitating access to Tasmanian Government programs and services.
5. Ensure that communications planning, co-ordination and execution are an integral component of the strategic management processes of government.
Communication programs are integral to government decision-making, program delivery, and effective partnership with the community. Internal and external communication requirements must be identified and met when planning, implementing, managing or reviewing policies, programs, services or initiatives.
6. Foster a corporate and collaborative approach to communication across government.
Co-ordination and collaboration within, between and among agencies is imperative to ensure coherent and consistent communications across government, and to deliver best value information services for Tasmanians. This involves communications specialists working in conjunction with senior management, policy developers and staff who are involved in program delivery.
