It is becoming clear why Treasurer Barnett was reluctant to take on the portfolio. The Treasurer was visibly confused and struggled to provide answers on critical budget matters.

Despite being asked multiple times, Treasurer Barnett was unable to outline whether there is a ‘pathway’ to surplus as the Liberals claim, or whether there will be an actual surplus at the end of 2029-30.

It’s because he has no idea.

It’s incredibly concerning that Tasmania’s Treasurer is unable to demonstrate a clear understanding of the budget and its implications for Tasmania. The Liberals have no plan for addressing Tasmania’s disastrous budget position.

Treasurer Barnett was also asked whether the Government are in breach of their “unambitious” fiscal strategy delivered in 2023, but he couldn’t answer.

The Liberals are currently meeting just two of their eleven fiscal strategy measures, in other words they’re failing on their own report card despite being the ones who set the test.

After 10 years of budget mismanagement, it’s clear the Liberals can’t be trusted with the state’s finances and the Treasurer has no idea what’s going on.

Josh Willie MP
Shadow Treasurer