Begging no longer a crime in Tasmania

Begging will no longer be a crime in Tasmania.

The bill to remove the offence will be introduced in the spring session of state parliament.

"I can announce today that we will now proceed to remove the current offence of begging," Police Minister Michael Ferguson said on Thursday.

Mr Ferguson says the government will consult with stakeholders over the reforms.

Tasmania Police has requested its powers to move people on if they are being a nuisance or intimidating be maintained.

Mr Ferguson says the government is working on preventing situations where vulnerable people feel the need to beg in the first place.

"The Hodgman Liberal government is focused on practically improving the lives of Tasmanians by reducing cost of living pressures, helping people out of family violence situations and supporting vulnerable Tasmanians into safe and affordable accommodation," he said.

"Removing begging as an offence helps us get the balance right."