By ROBERT WALLACE

TCCI Chief Executive

THE Federal election campaign is now in full swing and while Tasmanian business will be looking to all parties to exercise fiscal restraint and not engage in flagrant spending sprees to win votes, there are three key issues for Tasmania that must be addressed by those seeking government.

They are arresting the chronic skills’ shortage that is severely inhibiting our capacity to grow our economy and create jobs, the impact and opportunities associated with climate change, and urgent infrastructure development required to promote growth and provide the necessary service for our community.

While the first two issues are highly relevant for all of Australia, infrastructure support is particularly crucial for Tasmania. Our State missed out on its share of the most recent $22 billion national infrastructure funding pool, so many urgent and required projects are in limbo. Funding is required for Bell Bay and other port developments, for the upgrade of the Midland Highway and while money has been allocated for Tasmania’s rail system, more will be required if it is to perform its vital transport role into the future.

Action is required to arrest the shortage of skilled workers in Tasmania. This requires a coherent plan and funds for skills training, employer rebates and trainee allowances. Our research over recent years has pointed to the lack of availability of skilled labour as the key factor holding back business and jobs growth in Tasmania. Resolution of this issue will go a long way towards ensuring a strong economic recovery.

Political leadership is also required on climate change. While Australia would be foolish to ‘go it alone’ when other countries are reluctant to act, government can assist business with tax incentives to adopt energy efficiency and conservation measures and the identification of business opportunities in this area. As a leader in renewable energy generation and development, Tasmania has a key role to play in our national response to climate change.

In the absence of any global consensus, business certainly does not favour any unilateral emissions trading scheme for Australia. However, industry is keen to work on energy efficiency measures where there is common ground on reducing environmental impact and business costs.

Tax incentives for lower-emitting plant and equipment such as the successful investment allowance used during the global financial crisis would be a welcome initiative which would support industry, jobs and the environment.

Tasmania will be looking for response on these issues from our politicians in what should be a financially responsible election campaign.