What is the Hobart City Deal?
We've got all the key points here!
The historic Hobart City Deal was signed on the 24th of February and we're sure there's a lot of people out there saying "what is that?"
To clear it up and put all the info in one spot, we've put together everything you need to know, from all sides of the story!
The Hobart City Deal is a shared 10 year vision between the Australian and Tasmanian Governments and the Clarence, Glenorchy, Hobart and Kingborough councils.
Targeted at the below Key Focus Areas:
- Direct International Flights at Hobart Airport
Enhance the Hobart Airport's role as a direct international gateway, and its connection to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean.
- Gateway to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean
Solidify Hobart’s world class standing as a gateway to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean to attract business, research, tourism and other economically beneficial activity.
- Greater Hobart Transport Vision
Establish a reliable, sustainable and cost effective transport system with a focus on active and public transport as well as efficient private car travel.
- Affordable Housing/ Urban Renewal
Deliver a diverse range of affordable housing options close to work, play, transport and services.
- Strategic Collaboration and Governance
The City Deal will be supported by all partners through legislative and cooperative governance arrangements.
- Smart, Liveable and Investment Ready City
Investing in people, technology and emerging opportunities to support Hobart to continue to provide job and business opportunities.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison, signed the deal in Hobart on Sunday which has new federal funding including:
- $30 million for affordable housing
- $82 million for border protection services at the airport
- $450 million for Antarctic research, and
- $25 million for the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor project
However the deal has drawn lots of criticism across the board.
The Tourism Industry Council's, Luke Martin took to twitter to slam the deal.
"No commitment to move the CSIRO and reimagine Castray Esplanade and Hobart’s waterfront.
— Luke Martin (@lukemartin83) February 24, 2019
No actual specific developments to *finally* activate Macquarie Point.
All a bit of a bore really. #politas #citydeal"
Meanwhile Sue Hickey, Liberal MP has come out as disappointed the deal doesn't including any funding to the science and technology hub for central Hobart.
Dave and Al ask Premier Will Hodgman what he thought of the deal and if he got what he wanted:
Our Angry Birds, Kristie Johnston (Glenorchy mayor) and Rebecca White (Leader of the Opposition) had their say:
The City Deal can be read in full HERE