With the state of Tasmania confronting major economic, social, climate and environmental challenges, we need leadership now more than ever. Unfortunately for all Tasmanians, there was none to be seen in this year’s State of the State address.
As Premier of Tasmania, Jeremy Rockliff should have stepped up to the lectern and outlined a proper agenda for the year ahead – the legislation and reform that will make our state a better place. Instead, it was a speech full of empty sentiments, re-announcements, and shuffling the deck chairs.
Soon to enter his fifth year as Premier, it feels like Jeremy Rockliff has run out of steam. Either that or he’s been so restricted by the deeply conservative members of his Cabinet that he is left with nothing to offer.
The idea of ‘Building Tasmania’ sounds like something straight out of Utopia. It would be laughable if it didn’t come at the cost of 250 Tasmanian jobs.
Tasmanians don’t want yet more hollow words from politicians. They want – and deserve – real and lasting change that will improve their lives and protect what makes the island home we all share so special.
While the Premier’s address was underwhelming and tired, the good news is that in this minority Parliament it’s not only the Liberals who get a say. All MPs have the opportunity to drive the actions that our state needs and deserves – and that’s exactly what the Greens will be doing.
