Joint media release with Jodie Campbell MP, Federal Member for Bass
Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research and Jodie Campbell MP, Federal Member for Bass, today announced a two-year $4.51 million economic development package that will deliver sustainable employment to North East Tasmania.
"I am pleased to announce that the Australian and Tasmanian Governments have agreed to provide new economic assistance to the North East," Senator Carr said.
"The assistance will be delivered in two components: a $3.91 million North East Tasmania Innovation and Investment Fund; and a $600,000 Business Micro Capital Scheme.
"The fund will be aimed at projects creating sustainable employment and economic development in Tasmania's North East, particularly in Scottsdale.
"We will be particularly interested in initiatives that provide employment opportunities for workers displaced by the recent closure of Auspine's Tonganah sawmill.
"Initiatives that add value to the region's timber based industries, such as furniture making, by both new and existing businesses, will be considered favourably.
"Applications for the fund will be called through a funding round, with projects being allocated funds through a merit-based selection process.
"We expect that applicants will also contribute funding towards their projects and the extent of co-investment will be a factor in assessing applications," Senator Carr said.
Ms Campbell welcomed the package saying that it provided an important boost for jobs and economic development in the region.
"It is vital that we get this right and secure the long term future of Scottsdale and the North East," Ms Campbell said.
“I understand how important jobs and job creation are, not only this region but the whole of Northern Tasmania.
“I also understand how much pressure workers and their families are under and as a government we are committed to providing practical, targeted assistance,” Ms Campbell said.
Applications will be assessed by a three member panel, comprising a representative of each Government and an independent member of the North East business community, who will recommend a list of projects to AusIndustry and the Tasmanian Department of Economic Development.
The North East Tasmania business micro capital scheme will be modelled on the successful North East Tasmania Assistance Program established by the Tasmanian Department of Economic Development and the Dorset Economic Development Group between 2003 and 2006.
"This scheme will be open to displaced mill workers who wish to consider new business and self-employment opportunities, and other applicants who want to develop new opportunities or expand existing businesses to create sustainable jobs," Senator Carr said.
"Up to $25,000 will be available to each applicant through the micro capital grants. The grants will be allocated on an on-going basis until the funds are depleted.
"This scheme will allow more immediate action to quickly address local concerns and re-engage displaced workers into the workforce," Senator Carr said.
More information about the economic development package will be available from www.ausindustry.gov.au.
Media contact: Patrick Pantano, Minister Carr's Office, 0417 181 936
Sophie Murphy, Jodie Campbell's Office, 0458 363 771