Treasurer Guy Barnett has once again proven he has no idea what he’s doing in charge of the state’s finances.

In a predictable and desperate attempt to distract from his Government’s disastrous track record, the Treasurer has tied himself in knots trying to attack Labor over Independent Member Kristie Johnston’s motion.

Increasing the ratio of own-source revenue is already their target and already in their budget.

As page 50 the 2024-25 Tasmanian Budget clearly reads: "Over the 2024-25 Budget and Forward Estimates the Government will target an average of greater than 37 per cent of own-source revenue as a percentage of total expenditure."

The Treasurer clearly doesn’t understand his own budget strategy and that’s why Tasmania’s finances are in such a mess.

He is also a massive hypocrite, given his government is looking to introduce a short stay tax and a beer tax, all while his coalition partners consult on tax increases.

The results of having the Liberals in charge for 11 years speak for themselves. There was money in the bank when they came to power, and Tasmania is now heading towards over $10 billion in debt 11 years later.

Labor does not support new taxes. A Labor Government would unashamedly grow the economy to increase revenues to deliver services Tasmanians rely on.

Josh Willie MP
Shadow Treasurer