Labor Leader Bryan Green has secured a commitment from the Victorian Government to receive a delegation of Tasmanian shippers and exporters to discuss rent costs at the port of Melbourne.
Mr Green said, contrary to claims from Tasmanian Treasurer Peter Gutwein, negotiations over port fee increases were still ongoing.
“I have had a very constructive meeting with Daniel Andrews yesterday where I stressed the importance of the Port of Melbourne to Tasmanian exporters.
“While it is true that the Victorian Government is sympathetic to Tasmania’s situation, I was told that negotiations are still ongoing.
“Mr Gutwein’s claims that Tasmania’s concerns over port fees will be addressed in Victorian legislation are simply untrue.
“Legislation dealing with the lease of the Melbourne Port is completely separate to commercial discussions over port fees.
“Mr Gutwein has either misunderstood the process, or he is deliberately misleading Tasmanians.”
Mr Green said he was pleased the Victorian Government had agreed to receive a delegation of Tasmanian shippers and exporters to discuss port costs.
“This is a positive step which will allow Tasmanian shippers and exporters to put their concerns directly to the decision makers in Victoria.
“I wish to thank Premier Andrews for his constructive approach to this issue. It is critical that we secure a positive outcome for Tasmanian exporters.”
Bryan Green MP Labor Leader
