As Tasmania moves into its COVID-19 recovery, we have a unique opportunity to work as a community to build a fairer and more resilient economy.
Shadow Treasurer, David O’Byrne, said Labor’s COVID-19 Recovery Package is not only a positive contribution towards getting Tasmania back on track but it builds for the future.
“Tasmania was already heading into net debt and budget deficits before the pandemic hit,” Mr O’Byrne said.
“We need to rebuild a sustainable state budget position and Labor’s COVID-19 Recovery Package advocates for a comprehensive response; for example, we are calling for the establishment of industry and region-specific innovation and investment funds to support a diverse range of sectors for targeted growth.
“We are open to supporting the creation of industry-led co-ops to allow smaller businesses to collectively increase their purchasing power. There is a need for clear access to lines of equity and capital at reasonable rates, in some cases underwritten by government.
“Government assistance for industry must be tied to businesses building a better framework of economic security for workers. Without job security the decisions workers make on a daily basis on where and how they spend their money in our economy will be severely restricted.
“Job security builds consumer confidence, which in turn builds a stronger economy. We must work to rebuild a sustainable state budget position to ensure we can deliver the highest-quality government services in health, education, housing, our parks and beyond.
“Labor’s COVID-19 Recovery Package will form the basis of the party’s submission to the Premier’s Economic and Social Recovery Advisory Council.
“We are contributing positively though that process and it will be for the Advisory Council to recommend final projects for the government to consider as they develop their budget.
“The package also includes projects that have already been announced, but which have stalled. What we are advocating for is for the government to get them back on track and fast track their delivery.
“Labor’s COVID-19 Recovery Package is designed to get people into jobs, help those hardest hit by the pandemic and create a better state for everyone.”
David O’Byrne MP
Shadow Treasurer
