Guy Barnett,Minister for Resources
The Tasmanian Liberal Government makes no apology for trying to ensure Tasmanians can go to work and run their businesses in a safe manner free from threats and disruption.
Tasmanians have had enough of radical extremists invading workplaces and threatening and endangering staff.
Our Workplace Protection Bill will complement legislation already passed in the Federal Parliament where it received bi-partisan support.
Labor governments and oppositions across the country have supported similar legislation and it is time that the Tasmanian Labor Opposition finally threw its support behind Tasmanian workers rather than standing side-by-side with the Greens and the Bob Brown Foundation.
And, to be very clear, this Bill is not about stopping Tasmanians from protesting. The Government respects the right of every Tasmanian to express their views and protest lawfully.
This Bill won't stop legal protests outside hospitals, schools or climate change protests in streets or on footpaths. This Bill is simply about protecting Tasmanian businesses, workers and families from illegal threats, disruption and ongoing disruption from extremist protesters.
This Bill is needed because the existing laws are clearly not adequately discouraging extremist protesters from invading Tasmanian workplace and disrupting legally operating businesses.
We have listened to industry and workers which is why we will bring our Workplace Protection Bill legislation back before the House in coming weeks.
If Labor really wants a fresh start then it's time to support hard working Tasmanians and support this Bill and send a clear message that workplace invasions and disruptions have no place in this State.
