Our story
In 2007, State Cabinet approved the establishment of the Tasmanian Spatial Information Council (TASSIC) to be an industry and government advisory council that provides a key forum for increased collaboration between public, private and community sectors for the collection, maintenance and use of spatial information in Tasmania.
Led by an independent Chair, TASSIC members are nominated by key spatial sector and government organisations to ensure an appropriate balance of competencies and experiences.
The Council reports to the Minister for Parks.
TASSIC’s Charter provides for both permanent and interim members, all appointed by the Minister for Parks:
TASSIC Charter V6 2024 (PDF 319Kb)
Members of the Tasmanian Spatial Information Council (2024-2027) are:
Mr Maurits van der Vlugt
Independent Chair
Mr Michael Giudici
Surveyor General, Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas)
Dr Justin Thurley
Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPAC)
Dr Anna Riddell
University of Tasmania (Academia)
Mr Anthony O’Flaherty
Private sector (Business Stream)
Mr Peter James
Private sector (Professional Stream)
Mr Murray Jamieson
Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT)
TASSIC members from left to right , Dr. Anna Riddell, Michael Giudici, Maurits van der Vlugt, Anthony O’Flaherty, Peter James. Absent Dr Justin Thurley and Mr Murray Jamieson.
Achievements
In recent years, TASSIC has made significant progress in strengthening Tasmania’s spatial information sector. A major highlight was its leadership in workforce development, culminating in a well-attended 2023 Workforce Development Forum focused on addressing the ongoing shortage of skilled professionals in geospatial and surveying fields.
TASSIC also developed and promoted case studies showcasing spatial innovation in Tasmania, including the Greater Hobart Digital Twin, remote bushfire early warning systems, the Heavy Vehicle Access Management System and heritage data exploration tools—demonstrating the tangible benefits of spatial applications across multiple sectors.
In 2024, TASSIC continued to raise awareness and build connections. It contributed to key sector events like the State of GIS seminar and the Geospatial Council of Australia’s Tasmania Conference, while also maintaining regular engagement with government stakeholders.
The Council actively supported the upgrade of the LIST to accommodate an All-Hazards Spatial Infrastructure Project, reinforcing the role of spatial information in emergency management. These activities align with its strategic priorities: raising awareness, supporting innovation, and strengthening education and training in Tasmania’s spatial ecosystem.
TASSIC strategy 2025-2028
TASSIC Strategy 2025-28 (PDF 4Mb)
The TASSIC Strategy 2025–28 sets out a coordinated plan to strengthen Tasmania’s spatial ecosystem by addressing risks, seizing opportunities, and building long-term resilience. It focuses on three pillars: Governance and Influence, positioning TASSIC as a trusted policy advisor and securing stable funding; Industry Growth and Workforce, expanding skills pipelines, unifying advocacy, and driving commercial opportunities; and Innovation and Digital Integration, embedding spatial intelligence in digital transformation, fostering R&D, and improving data access.
Through targeted workstreams in communications, credibility, leadership, workforce development, and market growth, the strategy aims to deliver clear policy engagement, sustainable funding, a skilled workforce, and strong adoption of spatial technologies across Tasmania.
The TASSIC One Page Strategy summarises TASSIC’s objectives, priorities and roadmap until 2028:
TASSIC Strategy on a Page (PDF 230Kb)