Tasmania’s new Labor leader Josh Willie has pledged to build a “Tasmania that offers real opportunity, fairness and hope for everyone” in his first public address since taking the position.
Willie was named leader yesterday after Dean Winter’s election and no-confidence motion loss.
Speaking at Launceston’s Cataract Gorge on Thursday, Willie said he had a deep personal connection to the northern Tasmanian community.
“I grew up just up the road, my grandparents lived on this street and my late brother and I spent many days swimming in this pool,” Willie said.
“It’s a reminder of where I’ve come from and the community and values that shaped me.”
The former primary school teacher highlighted his intention to focus on struggling families, education, healthcare and job opportunities across various sectors of the economy.
“I’ll put my own stamp on leadership. I care deeply about Tasmanians. I love this place,” he said.
“Tasmanian Labor has always supported traditional industries and that won’t change, but through my leadership you’ll see us talking more broadly across the economy.”
Willie took aim at Premier Jeremy Rockliff over recent political upheaval, claiming the government’s actions have damaged business confidence.
“The premier’s word is worth nothing and I know that’s hurting business confidence across Tasmania because there are industries now ‘thinking who is next’,” he said.
“I’ve had people reaching out to me saying that this political chaos is not a place that they want to invest in and I think that’s a tragedy for us in Tasmania.”
Willie confirmed Labor’s continued support for the new Macquarie Point stadium while calling for proper process.
“Tasmanian Labor supports the stadium because it will unlock jobs and economic growth. It will deliver the AFL team that Tasmania has fought for for generations,” he said.
“I think due process is really important, returning to the Project of State Significance process that was set up originally will help to inform parliament.”
“Tasmanians are crying out for a new style of politics and that includes the premier not taking people for granted.”
Willie, who is raising three children with his wife in Hobart, will be supported by deputy leader Janie Finlay.
