Labor backs Canberra instead of Tassie jobs

With the future of Bell Bay Aluminium at stake, Tasmanian Labor MPs must stand up to their Federal colleagues and fight for Tasmanian jobs.

Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Felix Ellis said Labor’s Deputy Opposition Leader, Ms Finlay was more interested in running a protection racket for her federal colleagues than standing up for workers and businesses in her electorate.

“We have been calling on the Federal Government since May to ensure Australia’s only aluminium smelter powered by renewables is eligible for the Federal Government’s Green Aluminium Production Credit,” Minister Ellis said.

“In response to our advocacy for Tasmanian jobs and industry, Ms Finlay claimed the situation at BBA ‘is not about federal policy’ - if that’s the case, why has the Commonwealth brought out a scheme to support green aluminium smelters?

“While we are fighting for Tasmanian industries and jobs, Ms Finlay and Federal Member for Bass, Jess Tessdale, are focussed on protecting Canberra.”

While the Federal Government continues progressing its Green Aluminium Production Credit Scheme for the mainland, Tasmanian industry is still waiting for Labor to show the same commitment to Tasmania.

Minister Ellis said the risk of the smelter’s closure cannot be underestimated and this would have profound economic and social consequences for Tasmania.

“This smelter is a cornerstone of Tasmania's economy, directly employing over 600 people and supporting hundreds more through a supply chain of almost 300 local businesses.

“The Government expects Hydro to do what it can to put the Tasmanian economy and jobs first, consistent with its new Charter.

“Hydro Tasmania is offering a very, very competitive energy price and negotiations are ongoing. However, we need the Australian Government to step up and ensure that Bell Bay Aluminium can continue to be competitive in the international market.

“Keeping the smelter open is in the national interest, but Tasmania cannot do it alone.

“The Albanese Government must recognise that Tasmanian industry deserves its fair share of national support for maintaining Australia’s industrial base.

“Ms Finlay needs to stop being the Champion for Canberra and pick up the phone to Minister Ayres.

“We reiterate our calls to the Federal Government to ensure Bell Bay Aluminium is eligible for Green Aluminium Production Credit, helping to ensure this nationally important smelter has a strong future."