A $24 million joint fund is expected to create 774 new jobs, with 56 local projects to share the state and federal cash.
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“The really pleasing thing from my perspective is that we’ve turned an initial $16 million, when combined with the state government’s eight, into over $92 million dollars worth of investment,” Liberal Senator Richard Colbeck said.
Originally flagged as funding to upgrade the Cadbury factory prior to the 2013 election, the Commonwealth contribution to the jobs and growth package was criticised by Independent MP Andrew Wilkie.
He called the distribution of funds an appalling corruption of good governance, and said the money is being used to save the seats of Bass, Lyons and Braddon during the election campaign.
“That money was always meant for the Glenorchy area on account of the pressing need for economic stimulus in the area, and that need remains just as much today as it did before the 2013 election,” Mr Wilkie said.
“That the money has now been turned into a political slush fund is a breathtaking example of politicians putting political self-interest above the public interest and is to be condemned.”
Senator Colbeck denied the claims. He said the funds were about increasing the state’s capacity to generate employment.
“This is not about my senate seat, this is not about any individual member of parliament, this is about making a strategic and sensible decision to assist businesses in this state to employ more people,” he said.
Premier Will Hodgman said the program was oversubscribed, showing further proof of local business confidence.
“The process was very robust, and the Tasmanian government delegated responsibility to federal government agencies and that was a wise move, because they are well experienced in undertaking such processes,” he said.
A full list of successful candidates is available online, with further announcements expected soon regarding the remaining unallocated $2 million and successful applicants.