Glenorchy councillors unanimously voted down Hobart’s merger proposal this week, sending a clear message that the city is not ready to be folded into a much larger neighbour.
A report by Glenorchy City Council CEO Emilio Reale highlighted the council’s strong financial position, noting it is debt-free, maintains low residential rates, and has a fully funded asset renewal program.
The report also cautioned that merging with Hobart could push rates higher for Glenorchy residents, given the councils’ very different cost structures. Glenorchy’s average residential rate is $2,196, compared with Hobart’s $3,827.
What frustrated councillors most wasn’t the idea of amalgamation itself, but how it was proposed. Many described Hobart’s approach as an ambush — announced publicly before any meaningful discussions had taken place. Acting Mayor Russell Yaxley summed it up: “No one’s knocking on my door about this.” There was no groundswell of support, no resident pressure, and no urgency beyond Hobart’s own timetable.
That said, Glenorchy hasn’t closed the door completely. Councillors remain open to discussions as part of broader, state-led reform, provided there is proper evidence and a clear mandate. For now, however, the council sees little reason to risk its independence on a merger that could bring years of disruption with uncertain benefits. On that point, it’s hard to argue they’re being unreasonable.
Edwin Johnstone
Chair, Business Greater Hobart
