Tonight’s Federal Budget must include measures that address underlying economic and social issues to ensure Tasmanians are not left behind.
Shadow Treasurer David O’Byrne said with the state economy hanging by a thread, Tasmanians need to see measures that give them confidence in the future.
“At the height of the pandemic, 20,000 people lost their jobs and 11,000 people are still out of work, the second worst result of any state other than Victoria,” Mr O’Byrne said.
“There’s been a lot of fanfare about infrastructure investment to flow from this budget, but it’s highly questionable that the state government can deliver the projects and the associated jobs.
“The test of credibility is not announcing projects, but delivering them, and this government has an appalling track record. People are hurting now, and people need jobs now.
“Funding for health, housing, education and other essential services is also critical.
“Despite shutting down the state as part of the government’s response to COVID-19, our health and hospital systems are still in crisis, and we are in no state to respond to any future outbreaks.
“And we need to see realistic projections of GST revenue. With nearly 40 per cent of Tasmania’s revenue coming from the GST, any reduction will be to the state’s great detriment.
“This budget is the most important Federal Budget for Tasmania since the Second World War.
“In addition to economic stimulus, it must respond to the social impact of COVID-19. It is an opportunity to help Tasmanians keep their heads above water, specifically by extending JobKeeper beyond March and making sure JobSeeker doesn’t drop back to pre-COVID levels.
“Tasmanians have made huge sacrifices to keep our state safe. This budget must give everyone hope for the future.”
David O’Byrne MP
Shadow Treasurer
