Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff is standing firm on his government’s decision to pause salmon farm expansion and launch an independent review of the industry.
It is despite fierce criticism from Labor and industry leaders, who have branded the move a “shameless sellout”.
The Liberals announced the review on Sunday, covering regulation, antibiotic use and marine farming practices. All spatial expansion of salmon farms will be paused during the investigation.
“This is all about ensuring that a study in all the areas of regulation, antibiotic use, marine farming encompasses in one study to give certainty and confidence for the industry,” Rockliff said.
The decision comes as the Premier seeks crossbench support ahead of a crucial confidence vote on Tuesday.
Labor MP Janie Finlay accused the Premier of manufacturing a crisis to justify the review.
“To construct a problem a couple of days ago in order that you can now deliver a solution to something that didn’t exist is extraordinary,” she said.
Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff welcomed the announcement as “a step towards cleaning up industrial salmon farming” but warned her party would scrutinise the details.
“This has got to be a genuine moratorium while we do the work on reviewing and updating the legislation,” she said.
“We’ll be making sure it’s not a talkfest and a waste of time and it builds on the science and the reviews that have already been undertaken.”
Salmon Tasmania CEO Dr John Whittington condemned the decision, saying the Premier had broken promises made just six weeks ago.
“Tasmania’s salmon workers have today been shamefully sold out by Premier Rockliff,” he said, warning of damaged investor confidence.
Tassal diver Oliver Brewer said he was disappointed in the announcement but is confident any review would vindicate the sector.
“It’s disappointing to see my industry, that has fulfilled its regulatory requirements for the past years, be used as a political tool,” he said.
“It’s a shame to see that there will be additional red tape added to the expansion of industry, where there could be jobs added to our economy.”
“But I think that any inquiry into our industry will demonstrate that we are environmentally sustainable, we have good social licensing, and we are producing a good product.”
The salmon industry employs over 5,000 people directly and indirectly across Tasmania.
Rockliff indicated an independent offshore reviewer would be appointed, with terms of reference to be determined through parliamentary consultation.
Parliament will test confidence in the Liberal government on Tuesday.
