More cash for marginal seats

THE major parties pledged or handed out $107,696,773 worth of government funding in a big spending day on the hustings across Tasmania on Tuesday.

Labor topped the spending promises with a further $100m towards a bundle of irrigation schemes.

The Opposition committed the funding to Tranche Three of the Tasmanian Irrigation Scheme, which includes the Don, Flowerdale and Tamar projects in the North.

The Sassafras, Northern Midlands and Fingal irrigation schemes will also receive a cash injection if Labor is elected.

Franklin MP Julie Collins said her party’s commitment was a “great win” for Tasmanian farmers.

The Liberals countered with a $385,000 grant to help the commercial seafood industry set up a national online hub linking its workforce to employment, training and career pathways.

It was accompanied by a grant of $861,773 to help ensure “strong and fair supply chains across the seafood sector”.

Both amounts were announced in the federal budget.

Labor pledged to invest $2.1m to improve mobile coverage in Togari and Queenstown and $2.25m for Sheffield, Ansons Bay, and Tea Tree.

Labor member for Lyons Brian Mitchell said it would help address black spots.

Mr Mitchell pledged $50,000 in machinery for the workshop at Deloraine High School and $50,000 in Swansea Primary School for outdoor learning space upgrades.

Labor also announced $2m for Costa’s East Devonport Berry Distribution Centre to help expand capacity from around 12,000 tonnes to more than 17,000 tonnes for the 2026/2027 season.

Ms Collins said an Albanese government would lift the industry.

“The fresh produce sector is a major employer and generates significant income for Tasmania,” she said.

“Our temperate climate, fertile land and abundant water make Tassie ideal for berry production.”