Scott Morrison’s visit to Nyrstar’s Hobart zinc smelter three weeks into the 2022 federal election was typical of his campaign. Hard hats, high-vis vests, lots of photo opportunities, and a nice big funding announcement for the host organisation.

In this instance, Morrison promised Nyrstar $50 million towards a $400 million overhaul of its 107-year-old zinc smelter. The Tasmanian Liberal government committed a further $20 million towards the project on the fringe of the state’s capital.