Liberal leader Peter Dutton has promised a $1 million upgrade to Tasmania’s premier agricultural show during a campaign visit to the state today.
The last-ditch stop amid the federal election campaign saw Dutton tour Agfest with local Liberal candidate Susie Bowers and Premier Jeremy Rockliff.
“Only a Liberal government will actually lock in the future of Agfest,” said Bowers, noting the event generates $26 million for the Tasmanian economy and attracts 60,000 visitors over three days.
“They require some upgrades, which is actually putting this event at risk of not continuing.”
Dutton used the appearance to promote his party’s broader economic policies, including a proposed 25 cent per litre reduction in fuel prices and a $1,200 tax rebate.
“That’s going to help you deal with the cost of living pressures that you’re under, particularly if you live a bit further out of the city, if you’re on a rural property, if you’re in the suburbs running kids around,” Dutton said.
Rockliff praised the Opposition Leader’s approach to regional development.
“Peter Dutton … backs in our farmers, he backs in our foresters, he backs in our industry and he backs in jobs in rural and regional Tasmania,” the Premier said.
“He listens when it comes to what is needed on infrastructure, he listens when it comes to what’s needed in industry and backing rural and regional jobs, he listens when it comes to the cost of living as well, which I’m very impressed about.”
“I wish Peter all the very best, welcome you once again to Tasmania, Peter and let’s get Australia back on track.”
