The Tasmanian Government's investment into roads and bridges is under threat if Labor's 50:50 preferred funding partnership arrangements come into play.
Minister for Infrastructure, Kerry Vincent, said the Tasmanian Government was focused on delivering improvements and increased capacity for the State's growing population.
"Our infrastructure priority list requires significant funding from the Australian Government, and an 80 per cent federal contribution has been delivered by successive Australian Governments as the accepted funding ratio," Minister Vincent said.
"It was disappointing yesterday to hear the Prime Minister claim a State the size of Tasmania contributing 20 per cent instead of 50 per cent doesn't constitute 'buy-in' to a project.
"It's an insulting attack on Tasmanians, and Tasmanian Labor supports that position.
"Without the former Morrison Government's agreement to fund the Bridgewater Bridge at 80:20, we would not have the magnificent State Government managed project we see nearing completion over the Derwent River on time and on budget.
"The Federal Liberal Party's recent commitment to restoring guaranteed 80:20 funding ratio for regionally significant road projects in the State will mean we can continue the work to improve our roads and bridges for generations to come.
"Labor's position disadvantages smaller states and Tasmania will be unable to afford the vital road and bridge projects we need for our future. All we're asking for is an 80:20 funding split guarantee.
"Without this long-accepted level of Australian Government contributions, we would not have been able to deliver the $605 million Midland Highway nor the $786 million Bridgewater Bridge.
"Getting Tasmanians home to their loved ones safer and sooner by building better roads across the State is an important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future.
"Through a strategic and coordinated 80:20 partnership, we can deliver these road improvements and keep our economy strong and build more connected communities.
"Tasmania's infrastructure pipeline over the next 10 years has surpassed $30 billion, ensuring we can continue to grow our economy, create jobs and deliver the infrastructure Tasmania needs now and into the future."
