Coy on matching funds
TWO weeks out from the federal election, the major parties are remaining coy about whether they will match each other’s major southern Tasmanian infrastructure commitments.
The Coalition has pledged $50m towards a $400m expansion of Nyrstar’s Lutana zinc plant.
Meanwhile, Labor has promised $60m towards the $80m Hobart Airport runway project and $20m towards ferry infrastructure and new terminals.
Industry pressure is mounting on the parties to show bipartisan support for the projects, however neither the Coalition nor Labor will be drawn on any announcements that may come before polling day.
“The Liberals have a plan for Tasmania for a strong economy and a stronger future and we will have more announcements to make ahead of election day,” a Coalition spokesman said.
A spokesman for Labor reiterated the airport commitment.
“Labor is proud of our commitment that will help turn Launceston and Hobart airports into economic powerhouses, upgrading facilities and laying the groundwork for thousands of new jobs across Tasmania. This sits alongside Labor’s other commitments in Tasmania that support more secure, well-paid jobs right here in our state,” he said.
Staff at Nyrstar have highlighted the importance of the new electrolysis plant at the Lutana site, with the plant expected to radically improve environmental output and secure jobs for its 500 employees.
Environment principle Kylie Veale, who has worked at the site for seven years, described the project as “incredibly exciting” for environmental management.
Graduate electrical engineer Brenton Lester said the upgrade would provide further career pathways for graduates.
Project contractor supervisor Simon “Sav” Saville, who has worked at Nyrstar for 30 years, said the future of the site was looking bright after many ups and downs over the years. “I want to be part of it,” he said.
Meanwhile, nine of Tasmania’s peak industry groups have co-signed an open letter to the Prime Minister urging bipartisan support for the airport runway project.
The letter says the project will generate an additional $122m in economic activity and create 1261 additional jobs across the state, in tourism, agriculture and Antarctic industries.
While the runway was lengthened in 2017, it must be further strengthened to enable fully loaded long-haul flights to depart Tasmania. “Committing in this federal election to complete the upgrade of Hobart Airport’s runway is a nobrainer,” the letter said.