The central highlands is the site of many of Tasmania's hydro-electric power stations, historically a major regional employer. With hydro-electric construction currently on the wane, tourism, agriculture and forestry have become more important employers. The Tasmanian midlands are traversed by the Midlands Highway, the main road artery connecting the cities of Hobart and Launceston. This allows any point of Tasmania to be reached quickly. The central highlands, being a mountainous area, has more winding roads.
Coaches provide service to midlands towns and to Cradle Mountain .