Focus on Hobart City Deal

Media release – Independent Member for Clark, Andrew Wilkie, 12 May 2021

GOVERNMENT CLAIMS IT’S STILL ‘VERY FOCUSED’ ON HOBART CITY DEAL

Independent Member for Clark, Andrew Wilkie, has welcomed the Federal Government’s statement today that it is “very focused” on delivering the 10-year $1.7bn Hobart City Deal.

“The Hobart Deal includes establishing an Antarctic precinct at Mac Point, activating the rail corridor, and action to address Hobart’s terrible traffic congestion and housing crisis,” Mr Wilkie said. “I will continue to hold the Government to account and work to ensure it keeps its promises.”

Yesterday’s Federal Budget listed 10 city and regional deals, including the Launceston City Deal for the marginal electorate of Bass, but did not mention the Hobart City Deal which has seen little action beyond the $30m social housing package Mr Wilkie negotiated that has delivered 48 houses so far.

Mr Wilkie pressed Prime Minister Scott Morrison on this Budget omission in Question Time today.

The Prime Minister, echoed afterwards by Cities Minister Paul Fletcher, said the Morrison Government is very focused on the Hobart City Deal and detailed progress on the Bridgewater Bridge replacement, making Hobart Airport an international hub and activating the rail corridor.

Mr Wilkie said he would be looking for action, not words, which is all the more important given the State Government’s dreadful track record of delivering major infrastructure projects.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4bQNAzqKuk