A strong economy and a stronger future for Tasmanians relies on strong small businesses.

Today, the Federal Liberal Government has pledged to drive the creation of an additional 400,000 small businesses across Australia over the next five years as part of its plan for a strong economy.

There are almost 40,000 small businesses in Tasmania, and the Liberals’ plan aims to push that up toward 50,000.

Liberal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said that only the Liberals could be trusted to back‑in Tasmanian small businesses to grow jobs.

“The Liberals know that small businesses are the engine-room of our economy and are critical to driving job creation,” Mrs Archer said.

“Our plan is driving lower taxes, investment in skills and trades, opening up new export market opportunities and maintaining downward pressure on electricity prices.

“This is a plan that will help family businesses to grow, and deliver opportunities for new businesses and jobs to be created.

“In contrast, Labor has no plan for Tasmania and no plan to help small businesses get ahead.”

Liberal Candidate for Lyons Susie Bower said that the Liberals had always been big supporters of small businesses.

“The Liberals have a strong track record of supporting small businesses, and under the Liberals, Tasmanians can be sure that would continue,” Ms Bower said.

“New ATO data has shown that the Liberals’ tax incentives drove $23 billion in investment and helped create 100,000 small businesses over the last year.

“These businesses in turn provide jobs, and goods and services to keep our local communities growing and connected.

“These results clearly show that our plan for a strong economy is working.

“Now is not the time to risk our economy with a Labor Party that is weak on the economy and doesn’t know how to manage money.”

Only a re-elected Federal Liberal Government has a plan to build a strong economy and a stronger future for Tasmanian small businesses.