Media release – Peter Gutwein, Premier, 7 June 2020
Labor needs to get on board
The Tasmanian Government is proactively engaging in discussions with both its Federal and New Zealand counterparts in regards to Trans-Tasman travel.
Instead of sniping from the sidelines Labor should get on board and welcome the fact that under the City Deal the Australian Government will invest $82.3 million for border services including the AFP.
In fact just last week Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed that border force services will be available to the state and we will work with the Hobart Airport in relation to the necessary quarantine facilities they would require.
Both jurisdictions have worked hard to contain coronavirus and with the situation now under control it makes sense for us to explore the opportunity of direct flights.
Media release – Rebecca White MP, Labor Leader, & Julie Collins MHR, Labor Member for Franklin, 7 June 2020
Trans-Tasman opportunity requires proactive approach
Labor Leader, Rebecca White, and Federal Member for Franklin, Julie Collins, said funding in the City Deal earmarked for the Hobart Airport needed to be used flexibly to respond to the impacts of COVID-19 and establish Hobart as the port of entry to Australia for all NZ travellers in the Trans-Tasman bubble.
“The visitor economy is vital for Tasmania’s economy and its revitalisation will be critical in our recovery and getting people back to work,” Ms White said.
“But it is concerning that tourism infrastructure barely rated a mention in the Premier’s infrastructure package last week.
“And Qantas CEO Alan Joyce did not reference Tasmania as a priority route when he addressed Tourism Australia on Friday in a webcast*.
“There is an enormous opportunity for Hobart to become the gateway for the Trans-Tasman bubble, but it requires a proactive approach from both State and Federal Governments. We are not the only Australian city bidding for flights and Hobart Airport requires investment in order to comply with border security requirements.”
Ms Collins said it is good news that discussions are progressing to make Hobart the gateway for international flights with New Zealand.
“Given that New Zealand has had similar success as Australia in containing the virus, it makes sense to have a strong partnership with our neighbour at this time,” Ms Collins said.
“But it isn’t going to happen by accident and the Federal Liberal Government does not have a good track record when it comes to investing in border security at Hobart Airport. They still haven’t restored the Australian Federal Police presence that was cut by Tony Abbott.
“Since 2013 the State and Federal Liberals have been promising direct international passenger flights for Hobart but have failed to deliver. This cannot be another missed opportunity.
“Investment is needed to ensure appropriate protection, including PPE and barriers are in place to ensure the safety of frontline ABF officers.”
