A re-elected majority Liberal Government will deliver a 2030 Strong Plan that secures the future of Tasmania’s world class salmon industry.

“My government 100 per cent backs Tasmania’s $1.3 billion salmon industry which employs around 5,000 Tasmanians, with nine in every 10 of those jobs in our regional communities," Premier Jeremy Rockliff said.

“We want to see this industry continue to sustainably grow, innovate and remain a key economic driver in thriving regional communities, like Tasmania’s West Coast.

“That’s why my first commitment to Tasmania’s salmon industry is this: Macquarie Harbour will not shut on our watch.

“Labor wants to shut down aquaculture on the West Coast, and force around 400 Tasmanians out of a job.

“I will not stand for it. We will fight tooth and nail to save aquaculture in Macquarie Harbour from Labor’s threat to shut down the industry and put hundreds of workers out of work.

“I again urge Labor to quit torturing West Coasters, and make a decision on their future before Easter.”

A re-elected majority Liberal Government will also:

• Provide ongoing support for the salmon industry to continue to operate sustainably in Macquarie Harbour;
• Commit to actively support the industry’s expansion into the designated Storm Bay Growth Area and further off-shore opportunities;
• Consider reform opportunities for the planning and approvals process, to remove duplication and unreasonable barriers to investment;
• Continue our clear commitment to no moratoriums;
• No arbitrary policy in relation to the phase out of Flow Through Hatcheries;
• Ensure the financial model will not change;
• Fully recognise the significant contributions salmon companies already make to local communities when looking at ‘returns to the community’;
• No new salmon taxes;
• Work constructively with the salmon industry to progress the Tasmanian Salmon Plan; and
• Continue regular scheduled meetings with Salmon Tasmania.

“We will always support and grow Tasmania’s salmon industry and the economic contributions it makes to our regions,” Premier Rockliff said.

“Only a re-elected majority Liberal Government will fight for the future of the salmon industry.”