Today’s decision to call for a election on Saturday 19 July defies the will of the Tasmanian people who went to the polls and had their say a mere 14 months ago.
TasCOSS CEO, Ms Adrienne Picone, expressed frustration that this decision will once again divert focus from addressing the issues that matter to Tasmanians, such as increasing the supply of social housing or bringing down energy costs.
“Tasmanians do not need another election,” Ms Picone said.
“When we talk to our community about what matters to them, they tell us their priorities are a safe, affordable place to call home, the ability to put food on the table, access to health care, and ensuring our next generation — our children — are safe and supported.
“These are the areas the Parliament should be focussed on, and instead we are spending valuable time and $5.75 million in taxpayer funding on a election which is avoidable.
“To go back to the polls shows a lack of respect to voters, who sent a loud message just over a year ago. Tasmanians expect their elected representatives to deliver on their promise to undertake the hard work that minority government requires for the betterment of the state and its people.”
Ms Picone said this decision also throws into serious doubt funding provisions for community service providers, with the interim Supply Bills only accounting for existing funding contracts and services.
“We are concerned that some organisations reliant on funding commitments contained in the Budget will be left in the lurch,” she said.
“This funding is not a nice-to-have, in many cases it pertains to essential community supports. Failure to provide for this will place jobs at risk and, most importantly, will result in Tasmanians missing out on services.
“As we embark on another election campaign, we call on parties and candidates to do better when it comes to focussing on the issues that matter to Tasmanians.”