Independents team-up on TFES
Two independents unite to demand urgent reforms for Tasmania’s freight equalisation scheme.
Two independent politicians are teaming up across the State/Federal government divide to advocate for strong action on Tasmania’s Freight Equalisation Scheme.
Miriam Bewick MP will move a motion in Parliament this afternoon, allowing state MPs to send a clear message about the future of the scheme.
Senator Tammy Tyrrell is backing Mrs Beswick’s motion. Last year Senator Tyrrell established a Senate Committee on the TFES and her advocacy has led to election commitments from both sides of politics.
Lines attributable to Miriam Beswick, Independent Braddon MP:
"Senator Tyrrell has done a terrific job putting the TFES on the agenda and I’m pleased to move a motion in State Parliament backing her in.
“It’s a very uncertain time for trade so we need to do everything we can to support Tasmanian exporters.
“Reform of the TFES is well-overdue and I believe it’s an issue all Tasmanian MPs, at both the State and Federal levels, can unite on.
“I’m proud to stand with Senator Tyrrell and believe Tasmanians would welcome more collaboration in the pursuit of positive outcomes for our state.”
Lines attributable to Senator Tammy Tyrrell, Independent Senator for Tasmania:
“The great thing about independents is we can focus on the things that actually matter to Tasmanians, not what parties tell you is important. Miriam’s doing a fantastic job putting TFES on the agenda in state parliament and listening to her constituents on the North-West Coast.
“It’s time for strong action on Tassie’s freight scheme. It’s not good enough for Federal Labor and the Coalition to hide behind the promise of a review. I’ve seen enough of them left to collect dust on a shelf.
“I’ve put forward strong ideas that’ll make TFES better and fairer for Tassie businesses right now. If State Parliament backs them in, the two major federal parties should pay attention and go back to the drawing board. If they want to win key seats this election, Tasmanians expect real results.”
*The motion passed State Parliament unanimously on Wednesday 9th April.
Want stronger action on TFES ? Click here to email your local candidates and tell them to back in real changes now.
What else is news?
Everything Tam's been saying in front of journalists and their microphones.
From the outback to the suburbs, veterinarians are the frontline that safeguards animal welfare, rural economies and our own health against hidden biosecurity threats.
Adequate funding transforms early childhood classrooms into launchpads where skilled educators can nurture curiosity and resilience, giving Australian kids a lifelong edge.
Tasmania’s hospitals overflow with fit patients awaiting aged-care support
Find out why healthy Tasmanians are stuck in beds while the government drags its feet.
What if the next doctor you see isn’t born here?
Tasmania’s longest-serving disability provider battles a perfect storm
The hidden costs that could shut down essential therapy for thousands.
Find out why empathy may be the missing piece to solving Australia’s housing crisis.