Eric Abetz, Treasurer
The Tasmanian Government's modest 5 per cent Short Stay Levy, which would have been paid for overwhelmingly (over 80 per cent) by interstate and international visitors, has been voted down by Labor.
The Tasmanian Government took this commitment to the election. It has been consulted on over years. It had strong protections for hotels, motels, inns and other similar commercial accommodation.
Labor voted against it. Labor's choice for Treasurer Ruth Forrest voted against it. They cannot have it both ways: calling for fiscal responsibility then voting down sensible revenue measures which would have supported first home buyers paid for by non-Tasmanians.
Their hypocrisy is writ large and Tasmanians are understandably disappointed.
