A new Tasmanian MP is calling on the state government to invest $1 million in a study to explore the possibility of bringing a Costco or similar low-cost supermarket chain to the island state.
Andrew Jenner from the Jacqui Lambie Network believes such a move could significantly reduce grocery prices for locals.
“Research from consumer group Choice has found that the average cost of groceries in Tasmania is 25% higher than on the mainland, despite Tasmanian wages being an average of 10% lower,” Jenner said.
“The report stated that the lack of ALDI, or equivalent low-cost supermarkets in Tasmania is directly contributing to the higher-than-average grocery prices.”
He said Tasmanians shouldn’t be paying more for their groceries.
“Bringing Costco, or a Costco equivalent, would directly help alleviate the cost-of-living pressures in a fundamental way,” he said.
The party is also asking the government to prioritise funding for community legal services, environmental organisations, social and community services and health and wellbeing services.
Due to the perceived negative financial position the state could be in as a result of the Macquarie Point project, of which Tasmania’s investment will be capped at $374 million, the party said they have kept their bids “minimal”.
“The JLN’s budget bids focus on holding the Liberal Government to its commitments to the Tasmanians, prioritising the most vulnerable in the community,” a spokesperson said.
“The JLN budget submissions are heavily targeted at developing sustainable cost of living relief and addressing urgent needs in rural and regional communities.”
The party also made clear its opposition to the Cadbury Chocolate Experience project and proposed Macquarie Point multi-purpose stadium, saying they cannot support the development unless it can be proven to show a “clear value for the Tasmanian people”.
Treasurer Michael Ferguson confirmed the state government had received multiple bids from the Jacqui Lambie Network.
“These will be considered among with others submissions as part of the normal budget process, however I welcome their initiative and commend their focus on improving the cost of living for Tasmanian families,” he said.
The state budget will be handed down on September 12.
