A majority Labor Government will back in Tasmania's manufacturing sector and ensure it has a strong future.
Shadow Minister for Manufacturing Anita Dow said Tasmania's manufacturing sector employs nearly 20,000 people and is a crucial part of the Tasmanian economy.
"Tasmania's manufacturing sector is vital to the state and Labor stands firmly behind the industry," Ms Dow said.
"A majority Labor Government will deliver a $55 million Jobs and innovation Fund to help manufacturing businesses grow and thrive. This fund will support businesses to invest in the new technologies and equipment they need to improve and create new jobs.
"Labor will also rebuild TAFE from the ground up, make TAFE free in areas of skill shortage and invest $15 million to create 500 apprenticeships for people over 35."
Ms Dow said Labor will build the capacity of the manufacturing sector.
"Labor will extend funding for a Workforce Development Project Manager and implement a comprehensive program of career education in schools to promote the benefits of a career in manufacturing.
"We will fund insight tours to assist with collaboration and knowledge-sharing between manufacturing businesses.
"And we will establish a Manufacturing Industry Advisory Council to advise Government on industry priorities."
Tasmanian Labor Leader and Shadow Minister for Trade and Investment Rebecca White said the manufacturing sector was the largest contributor to Tasmania's interstate and international exports.
"A strong manufacturing sector needs strong trade and investment policies, too," Ms White said.
"That's why Labor will work with our exporters to expand into new and growing markets, which will create jobs and ensure we don't become too dependent on any single export destination.
"We'll continue to grow Tasmania's defence industry capability, and we'll take Tasmania to world with a further round of trade missions.
"And we'll invest $150 million in our northern ports to increase efficiencies and allow bigger ships to dock, which will help to bring down freight costs and keep our exports competitive.
"Under Labor, our manufacturing businesses and their workers can have confidence there's a bright future ahead."
Anita Dow MP
Shadow Minister for Manufacturing
Rebecca White MP
Shadow Minister for Trade and Investment
