Jen Butler recently received a comprehensive briefing from the State Controller Darren Hine at which the three stage assessment process for assessing all applications for essential travellers was clearly outlined.
Labor Leader Rebecca White was also present at this briefing and was advised that the process is administered through Biosecurity Tasmania, with the final decision resting with the State Controller.
Mr Hine has also previously explained this process publicly at a Government COVID-19 media briefing.
Ms Butler knows there are very strict rules regarding essential traveller applications, and that businesses must provide evidence that those services and skills for the required work, cannot be sourced in Tasmania.
Ms Butler was also advised in this briefing that the onus is on employers to provide the written confirmation that the specialist skillsets are not available in Tasmania and the skillset is required for time critical continuity.
Each application is assessed individually based on the information provided: firstly, by the Biosecurity Tasmania team, then by the State Controller team, with the final decision made by the State Controller or his delegate.
Furthermore, as soon as the situation in Victoria escalated, further restrictions were applied, with businesses to prioritise specialist services and skills from other states before Victoria or designated hot-spots, unless it is for life-saving or industry-critical needs.
The Tasmanian Government is committed to supporting Tasmanian businesses which is why, as recently as last week, we enhanced our Buy Local Policy, to ensure even more Tasmanian businesses can reap the benefits and further emphasise the importance of buying locally
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