The Container Deposit Scheme proposed by the Gutwein Government will be with Tasmanians for decades and now is the time to ensure it is the right one.
Shadow Environment Minister Sarah Lovell said Labor has long supported a Container Deposit Scheme but it must be designed to achieve the right balance across the community.
“Tasmania is one of only two states without a scheme,” Ms Lovell said.
“So now is the time to ensure we have the best possible model for our state.
“The bill has been tabled this week but we believe it needs further scrutiny. Labor will be seeking a short Legislative Council inquiry to ensure the scheme design proposed by the Liberals is the correct scheme for Tasmania’s environment, for business and for community groups, charities and consumers.
“Organisations such as TasCOSS and the TCCI have raised serious questions about whether the model chosen by the Government is the right one.
“And Iconic Tasmanian businesses such as Boags brewery have said the way the Liberal Government has designed the scheme will impose multi-million dollar costs on their business compared to a scheme like those currently successfully operating in South Australia, Queensland and Western Australia.
“This scheme will be with Tasmanians for decades to come and it’s imperative we find the right balance.”
Sarah Lovell MLC
Shadow Minister for Parks and Environment
