Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Whish-Wilson for his question. I know he supports the jobs and growth plan, because it is targeted at new opportunities that build on the government's significant investment in Tasmania since 2007 such as putting Tasmania first in the rollout of the NBN, providing significant infrastructure and transport investment, and delivering skills and education for the Tasmanian people.

There is—unlike what Senator Whish-Wilson has put, because I reject the premise of his question—ongoing consultation with the Tasmanian government, an economic diversification task force and three regional reference groups to determine suitable projects which will maximise local economic and community benefits and which represent value for money. Contrast that with those opposite. Here is what we know so far. Mr Abbott will cut Tasmania's GST by more than $600 million— (Time expired)