Premier and Treasurer encouraged Mona federal funds bid before campaigning against that funding

The Premier says he is unapologetic about encouraging Mona to seek federal funding for its proposed hotel development – funding which the Liberals then campaigned against.

An artist’s impression of Mona’s proposed $400 million five-star hotel. Picture: SUPPLIED

PREMIER Will Hodgman has revealed he encouraged Mona to seek federal funding for its proposed hotel development – which the Liberals then campaigned against during the recent federal election.

A Liberal campaign in Northern Tasmania against Labor’s federal election pledge to provide Mona with $50 million for its hotel development has been credited with helping the Coalition win Bass and Braddon.

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Premier Will Hodgman during the Budget Estimates hearing on Monday. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

During a state budget estimates hearing, Mr Hodgman said that prior to the election he and Treasurer Peter Gutwein suggested to Mona they seek federal support for the hotel project.

“I certainly have. I know the Treasurer has written to Mona suggesting such a thing. Very sensible advice,” Mr Hodgman said.

Labor leader Rebecca White. Picture: NIKKI DAVIS-JONES

Opposition Leader Rebecca White said Mr Hodgman should be “embarrassed” about the Coalition’s campaign against Labor’s Mona funding pledge.

“You are saying you encouraged Mona to ask for that funding and when they secured that commitment you actively campaigned against them … you just stood by and let your colleagues divide the state,” Ms White said.

Mr Hodgman was unapologetic about the Liberal Party’s campaign.

“I’m quite prepared for Federal parties to campaign and be judged by others on the strength of their campaign,” he said.

Mona owner David Walsh has warned his project could now be delayed.

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