Tas aged care needs attention: Labor

Tasmania has the nation's highest proportion of older people and the federal government must immediately address the state's growing demand for additional workers in the sector, Labor says.

Opposition spokesman on ageing Shayne Newman on Thursday said Tasmania will need an additional 5000 aged care workers over the next two decades and that the island state faces unique challenges, including traditional difficulties attracting and retaining workers in the sector.

Labor is consulting with stakeholders while awaiting the Abbott government's aged care workforce strategy, Mr Newman said.