Shadow Treasurer Scott Bacon has called on Will Hodgman to get tough in the face of new threats to Tasmania’s share of the GST.
“Every time you think this issue has gone away, Tony Abbott opens the door again for his Liberal mates in Western Australia,” Mr Bacon said.
“The Premier needs to show he’s not just a member of The Tony Abbott Fan Club by speaking up on this issue.
“The longer it’s allowed to bubble along, the closer we get to a change that would hurt Tasmania.
“While the PM says Tasmania wouldn’t be worse off, any altering of the GST formula would have a big impact on our state’s ability to provide services.
“If he’s suggesting Tasmania be compensated, instead of having autonomy over how we spend our money, that would be totally inadequate.
“Will Hodgman’s never looked entirely comfortable standing up to his Liberal chums, but on this issue it’s absolutely paramount that he does.
“Loud lobbying needs to drown out the greedy voice of WA Premier Colin Barnett, who would be very happy to see Tasmania go without vital services.
“Labor is ready to stand with the Premier on the issue, he just has to decide whether he’ll put Tasmania ahead of his Liberal Party membership badge.”
Scott Bacon MP Labor Shadow Treasurer
