The minority Liberal Government must protect the 200 jobs at the Avebury Nickel Mine.
Resources Minister Felix Ellis has had plenty of opportunity to secure these jobs but he has been too slow to act.
When the Avebury first reopened in 2018, the Liberal Government promised up to $3.5 million in payroll tax relief to get the mine started. But true to form for this government, they failed to deliver on this promise.
The Liberals have also deliberately held back a cash bond worth more than $1 million through Aurora Energy, which if provided would offer much needed capital to keep the mine going.
The Liberals say they are strong supporters of our mining industry and regional jobs but it feels like they only offer support to Tasmania’s vital industries when there is an opportunity to cut a ribbon or take a photo.
These actions could have been taken weeks ago when issues at the mine first emerged but instead jobs and local families’ livelihoods have been put at risk.
Tasmanian Labor wants to see a long and successful future for the Avebury Nickel Mine and its workforce. We call on the minority Liberal Government to deliver on its commitments and ensure it remains open.
Minister Ellis’s inaction is proving that he is inept as a representative for Braddon, and this is a further example that he is out of his depth as a Minister.
Anita Dow MP
Deputy Labor Leader
Member for Braddon
