A future Dutton Coalition Government will commit $550,000 to upgrade the Ulverstone Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) facility, ensuring rescue teams have the resources they need to respond swiftly to emergencies and safeguard Tasmanians on the water.
The project, with a total estimated cost of $750,000, will allow the VMR unit to store their newly acquired vessel on-site, eliminating response delays caused by offsite storage. The Central Coast Council has already pledged $200,000 towards the upgrade.
Announcing the funding during a visit to Ulverstone, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton underscored the importance of investing in regional emergency services.
“The men and women of Tasmania’s Volunteer Marine Rescue dedicate their time and skills to saving lives. It is our responsibility to ensure they have the right infrastructure to do their job safely and effectively,” Mr Dutton said.
Criticising Labor’s track record in regional Tasmania, he emphasised the Coalition’s commitment to strengthening emergency services and supporting volunteers.
“Labor has failed to deliver for regional Tasmania. The Coalition, in contrast, is committed to strengthening emergency services, supporting volunteers, and ensuring communities like Ulverstone get the infrastructure they need.”
Liberal Party candidate for Braddon, Mal Hingston, echoed Dutton’s sentiments, highlighting the significance of the project for the local community.
“I’ve heard firsthand from local marine rescue volunteers, boaters, and emergency responders who are frustrated by the limitations of the current facility,” Mr Hingston said.
“When every second counts on the water, this upgrade will mean faster response times and ultimately more lives saved.”
The commitment to the Ulverstone Marine Rescue Facility is part of the Coalition’s broader strategy to invest in essential regional infrastructure. This extends to Tasmania’s freight and transport sector, with a $65 million pledge to strengthen the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme.
Dutton highlighted the challenges Tasmanian businesses face due to rising freight costs, announcing immediate relief and a comprehensive review of the scheme.
“For too long, rising costs have made it harder for Tasmanian producers to compete,” he said.
“Our plan will deliver immediate relief, conduct an independent review to ensure the scheme is fit for purpose, and support those who rely on the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme.”
During his visit, Dutton met with local business owners, including Grant and the team at Spreyton Cider Company, to discuss the challenges faced by Tasmanian producers.
“This investment will help ensure Tasmania remains competitive and connected to markets across Australia and beyond.”
The Coalition’s plan includes an immediate $3 million investment to review the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme within the first 100 days of government, while also delivering $62 million in interim assistance. This funding aims to address industry concerns regarding freight cost disadvantages and rising intermodal expenses.
Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Senator Bridget McKenzie, said the Coalition would work to modernise the scheme and cut red tape.
“This scheme was set up to ensure Tasmanian businesses could compete equally with mainlanders,” Senator McKenzie said.
“Over recent years, it hasn’t been working for Tasmanian businesses, and they are rightly frustrated. That’s why a Coalition Government will urgently address the issue through an independent review and fix this inequity once and for all.”
Ensuring Tasmania’s industries remain competitive is a key component of the Coalition’s broader economic plan, which Dutton said was focused on getting the country back on track and securing a strong future for regional Australia.
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