A Majority Labor Government will invest in Tasmania's mining and resources sector to turn around its steep decline under the Liberals and allow the industry to thrive.
Shadow Minister for Resources Shane Broad said under the Liberals, mineral exploration has fallen by nearly 70 per cent, with the effect on mining activity and jobs yet to be felt.
"Our mining and resources sector is a major employer, an important source of export revenue, and mining royalties help fund our schools, hospitals and public services," Dr Broad said.
"That's why a Majority Labor Government will support our resources sector to grow and innovate, with an immediate injection of $3 million to the Exploration Drilling Grants scheme, to incentivise exploration for brownfield and new deposits.
"As part of our $55 million Jobs and Innovation fund, help will be available to businesses in the mining industry that need financial support to invest in innovative new technologies and equipment that will help them to expand their operations and create more jobs.
"Labor will also invest in Tasmania's 'Sea Highway' to increase port capacity and help trigger growth and jobs in the mining sector.
"Our $80 million upgrade to the Burnie Port will accommodate larger vessels, improve bulk storage capacity and further improve loading efficiency, and we will deliver multiple new berths for mining and other exports as part of a $10 million investment in Bell Bay Port.
"Labor also commits to review TasPorts' current Schedule of Port Charges and the impact on major freight customers and the Tasmanian economy, and will provide stronger protection to workers and businesses by legislating aggravated trespass laws.
"As a highly skilled and specialised industry, mining and its long-term success depends on a pipeline of skilled workers.
"Labor will stop Peter Gutwein's privatisation of TAFE and deliver a $4.6 million Regional Delivery Fund to ensure people can access training no matter where they live, and that the industry has the training and workforce it needs to thrive."
Shane Broad MP
Shadow Minister for Resources
