The Tasmanian Greens have unveiled new tax proposals targeting property developers and gaming machine operators, aiming to raise $380 million over four years.
The party has announced three key revenue measures, including a 75% tax on rezoning windfall gains and a significant hike in poker machine taxes.
Candidate Cecily Rosol said the measures would force developers and “pokies barons” to “pay their fair share”.
“Tasmania’s budget is in a mess after a decade of the Liberals,” she said.
“Despite expert warnings, the Liberals have been letting their corporate mates profit off Tasmanians.”
The biggest revenue earner would be lifting the electronic gaming machine tax rate to 45% across all venues, expected to generate $174 million.
Tasmania currently has the lowest EGM tax rates in Australia, ranging from 10.91% to 33.91%, compared to rates as high as 65% in South Australia.
A rezoning windfall levy, similar to the ACT’s model, would capture 75% of property value increases when land is rezoned for development.
The Greens estimate this would raise $173.85 million over four years.
The party is also proposing a 1% levy on vacant residential properties, excluding holiday shacks and homes under renovation.
With the Tenants’ Union of Tasmania estimating at least 1,468 to 1,932 homes sit completely empty, this measure could bring in $35.29 million.
“In the balance of power, the Greens will take the steps the major parties won’t to get the budget back on track,” Rosol said.
