Labor reveals government business plan changes, including restriction limits on board appointments

Government businesses such as Hydro and the Spirit of Tasmania would undergo a radical changes under Labor, the opposition leader says. Here’s what they plan to do.

Labor leader Dean Winter. Treasurer Michael Ferguson delivers the 2024 Tasmanian State Budget. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Labor would move to restrict board appointments to two term limits as part of a radical shake up to government businesses.

This comes after a week of parliamentary inquiries into TT-Line and TasPorts into the bungled Spirit of Tasmania ferry replacements that arrived late and over-budget.

Opposition leader Dean Winter has announced his party’s plans to change the running of government businesses.

Dean Winter Labor Leader, at Drysdale Place. Picture: Caroline Tan

The key change proposed is to restrict board appointments to two term limits and placing a strict rule that people could not serve on more than two government boards.

Mr Winter said that move would bring in fresh ideas and new leadership.

Another change Labor’s policy pitches is requiring two separate shareholder ministers for all government businesses at all times to “prevent the failures we’ve seen on Michael Ferguson’s watch occurring again”.

The Deputy Premier’s involvement and knowledge in the Spirit of Tasmania ferry saga has also come under fire, with Labor calling on the former Infrastructure Minister to resign from cabinet.

Mr Ferguson has denied allegations against him and says he maintains the backing of his Liberal colleagues.

He claimed to have taken all prudent steps to ensure the new ferries project and associated infrastructure arrived on time and on budget.

The new TT Line boat Spirit of Tasmania IV in Finland. Picture: Rauma Marine Constructions

Labor has also pitched to update legislative framework, require government businesses to consider the broader Tasmanian economy in their decision making and review the relevant portfolio.

Mr Winter said government businesses like Hydro and the Spirit of Tasmania were crucial for the state’s economy and jobs.

“Labor’s plan will start the work of getting our government businesses back on track, and delivering once again for Tasmanian jobs and the economy,” Mr Winter said.

“Our government businesses have never been in greater need of new leadership.”