The state government has been accused of behaving like “arrogant dictators” by introducing its Macquarie Point stadium bill to parliament while public consultation on the legislation remains open for another fortnight.
Independent MLC Meg Webb slammed the tabling of the bill on Tuesday morning and questioned why the public should provide feedback when the final bill appears already decided.
She said it was a “kick in the teeth to all Tasmanians who had engaged in that process in good faith”.
“What a misleading and outrageous sham. How dare this government treat Tasmanians with such contempt?” Webb said.
“This behaviour is deliberately inflammatory, divisive and is just plain rude.”
The legislation would fast-track approval for the $945 million multi-purpose stadium at Hobart’s Macquarie Point.
Greens deputy leader Vica Bayley said the premier was “drunk on power”.
“Today’s shock bill tabling shows the complete contempt for Tasmanians the Liberals have when it comes to pushing through this unpopular billion dollar project,” Bayley said.
“This will go down in the community and likely the Legislative Council like a lead balloon.”
Webb has demanded the bill be withdrawn or guarantee it won’t be debated until consultation closes.
A government spokesperson has defended the timing, saying the bill was tabled following proper parliamentary procedures.
They said any necessary changes could be made during the parliamentary process after public feedback is received.
The spokesperson said it was standard practice to introduce legislation before consultation periods concluded.
