Shadow Treasurer Scott Bacon says it is outrageous that Tasmanians must wait another two months for the State Budget, despite the new financial year starting today.
“It’s one thing for a new government to take their time, but to delay the State Budget until August 28 is ridiculous,” Mr Bacon said.
“Delaying the Budget makes a mockery of the Liberals’ claims that they are getting on with the job.
“Even after the Treasurer’s supplementary appropriation bill, there are hundreds of unanswered questions.
“Key stakeholders and community groups like Second Bite, Foodbank and Produce to the People have two months to wait before they’ll understand future funding arrangements.
“Meanwhile, pensioners are in the dark over whether they will still receive their concession entitlements.”
Mr Bacon said the uncertainty was damaging for business and community confidence.
“For a business like Forestry Tasmania, the wait must feel even longer,” Mr Bacon said.
“The Liberals have promised to remove FT’s vital subsidy but have not explained how the business will survive or what changes will need to occur.
“It will be interesting to see if the Liberals start announcing the bad news or whether they’ll save it all up for August 28.”
Scott Bacon MP Shadow Treasurer
