Tasmanian unions have criticised the state government’s latest budget for its impacts on public sector workers. 

The budget, delivered late last week by Treasurer Michael Ferguson, extends the government's “efficiency dividend” policy, requiring departments to find $450 million in savings over the next four years. 

Unions say the state’s desired savings are “absolutely unfathomable”.

“What they’re telling us, [is] that hundreds of jobs will go,” Jessica Munday, Secretary of Unions Tasmania, has told reporters.

Munday also warned that public sector workers, who already face lower wages compared to their mainland counterparts, could experience further pay cuts. 

The state’s debt is forecast to hit $5.4 billion this financial year, and the additional savings aim to reduce this burden. 

Ferguson said that the efficiency dividend represents only a small portion of government spending - about 50 cents for every $100. 

However, unions fear the cuts will have wide-ranging consequences. 

David Genford, president of the Education Union's Tasmanian branch, voiced concerns over potential impacts on the education system.

He said; “People are in the dark. What supports are going to be lost for schools?”

He also highlighted the lack of provisions in the budget to address key challenges like teacher workloads and violence in schools.

As the government pushes forward with its cost-saving measures, Tasmania's public sector workers remain uncertain about their future under these extended efficiency dividends.

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