The only thing more awkward than the Shadow Treasurer’s reckless interpretation of the Budget during question time, was the cringe-worthy fist pump he appeared to give himself.
Despite Dr Broad’s desperate efforts to deflect from the fact Labor has no alternative plan, the Tasmanian Government’s Budget Papers show clearly that the Budget returns to a cash operating surplus of $368.8 million in 2022-23, and in 2023-24 the Budget returns to a Net Operating Surplus of $39.4 million, increasing to $126.8 million in 2024-25.
This may be an inconvenient truth for Dr Broad because we know that had Labor got into government, the State’s finances would be a mess.
If Labor is going to use its irresponsible election cash-splash as an alternative budget base, it would cost the Budget an extra $2 billion.
The facts are clear - under Labor, Tasmania would be plunged deeper into deficit and another $2 billion of debt with no path out.
In contrast, we are using our strong balance sheet to invest and support 28,000 jobs over the next four years.
And our borrowings are manageable, the lowest per capita of all the states.
Is Dr Broad questioning Treasury’s integrity?
Or the credibility of S&P Global, who stated on 26 August 2021:
“Tasmania’s 2021-22 Budget shows an improving economic outlook that is supporting a return to operating surpluses . . Debt will rise as Tasmania (AA+.Stable-1+) funds more health services and infrastructure investment. However, the state’s debt will remain low compared with its similarly rated peers.”
While Labor is busy navel gazing and solo fist-pumping, the majority Liberal Tasmanian Government is delivering a plan to keep people safe, support business, grow the economy, create jobs and secure Tasmania’s future.