Labor Leader Bryan Green has used his State of the State reply speech to expand on Labor’s vision for education, reveal plans for greater community consultation on policy development and call for improved budget transparency.
“Labor will be introducing an online policy development portal,” Mr Green said.
“Tasmanians will be able to log on to make submissions, leave comments and submit their ideas.
“We’ll use the portal to consult with the community on key issues and policy proposals.”
On education, Mr Green stressed the need for a fresh, non-political approach to policy development.
“Labor is calling for an expansion of the partnership agreement between the Tasmanian Government and the University of Tasmania to enshrine closer collaboration with key industry sectors,” Mr Green said.
“Labor’s firm view is that employers have a vital role to play in identifying the skills our kids will need to take advantage of the jobs of the future.
“A greater focus on ‘business-led research and development’ will further strengthen Tasmania’s competitive advantage in agriculture, aquaculture and tourism and a more collaborative approach will help meet the needs of students and our economy.”
And the Opposition Leader used today’s speech to call for greater transparency through the budget process.
“Labor has written to the Auditor General, detailing our concerns about the Government’s handling of the budget process and making a number of suggestions,” Mr Green said.
“Labor is proposing amendments to give the office of the Auditor General the power to review the budget papers prior to their release.
“Pleasingly Auditor General Mike Blake has confirmed his office is capable and willing to provide this service.
“If this government has any interest in transparency then it should adopt this reform before the release of the next budget.”
Mr Green said Labor’s proud to compare its record over 16 years in government to the fluff and one line slogans currently being put forward by the Liberals.
“Tasmanians deserve better than the Premier patting himself on the back after a year of broken promises.”
Bryan Green MP Labor Leader
