Labor’s $30 million commitment to a partnership with the Burnie City Council will unlock exciting new opportunities for much-needed housing development on the north-west coast.
Burnie City Council’s Urban Plan identifies precincts and individual sites that are suitable for supporting city living options. This includes areas for dedicated housing developments, conversions of existing building stock and other options delivered as part of mixed-use developments.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said Labor’s top priority was taking urgent action on the cost of living – and that included urgent action on housing.
“After 10 years of the Liberals Tasmania is in a housing crisis, and vacancy rates in regional areas are at an all-time low.
“We need to think outside the box when it comes to housing, and that means capitalising on opportunities to support greater housing diversity and increased city living.
“Burnie City Council’s Urban Plan achieves exactly that, identifying a blueprint to develop more innovated housing options close to the city centre.
“Labor has already announced our plans to incentivise the development of 2,000 new apartments, and these initiatives will work hand in hand with plans like this one Burnie to get more people into houses, quickly.
“We’ve also announced other housing plans including our game-changing zero deposit home ownership program, opening up more land for development, and encouraging the construction of 1,000 new dedicated rental properties.
“We understand these are ambitious plans, and that’s why we’re keen to partner with local councils to get the job done.”
Deputy Labor Leader Anita Dow said the funding would transform the city.
“The Burnie City Council has been advocating for funding for this much needed revitalisation project for years and Labor is proud to come to the table to work in partnership with the council on this exciting development,” Ms Dow said.
“Disappointedly, the Liberals have remained silent on committing to this project.
“The Burnie community deserves to have a cityscape that is contemporary, vibrant, functional and encourages people to meet, eat and relax. This project will unlock urban housing, enable people to live in the city.
“The Liberals have had 10 years to revitalise the region, along with the important economic and social benefits it will bring.
“In this time, the Liberals have done nothing. Even though they committed $20 million to the project back in 2022, these funds have not been forthcoming.
Rebecca White MP
Tasmanian Labor Leader
Anita Dow MP
Deputy Labor Leader