Tassie Tensions: Labor Offers Landlords Cash to Cool Rental Costs

The Tasmanian election race heats up as Labour leader Rebecca White unveils a plan to combat rising living costs and address the state's energy efficiency woes. White's proposal targets both public and private housing, offering financial incentives to landlords in exchange for upgrades that could bring much-needed relief to Tasmanian renters.

The Labour leader visited Rokeby today to announce a $1,000 per household incentive program for landlords willing to invest in energy-saving upgrades like insulation, heat pumps, or improved glazing. However, to access the state funding, landlords must match the contribution, ensuring a shared commitment to improving energy efficiency in their properties.

"A Labour Government will take urgent action on the cost of living by making rental properties and social housing more energy efficient," White declared. "Tasmanian winters can be incredibly cold, and we know many Tasmanian families are making difficult decisions on whether to heat their homes or put food on the table."

While welcomed by the Tenants' Union of Tasmania, the announcement has sparked debate. Principal solicitor Ben Bartl stressed the need for mandatory energy efficiency standards across all rental properties through amendments to the Residential Tenancy Act. This call highlights the difference in approaches between Labour, focusing on incentives, and the Tenants' Union, advocating for stricter regulations.

Meanwhile, the Labour campaign throws shade at their opponents. Dean Winter, Labour MP for Franklin, criticised the Liberal Party's newly announced candidates, calling them an "anti-vaxxer, a climate change denier, and someone under investigation by the Integrity Commission." Winter claims this selection reflects poorly on the Liberal Party and highlights the "decay" he believes a decade of their rule has brought to Tasmania.

As the election draws closer, both parties are vying for the support of Tasmanian voters. Labour's focus on affordability and sustainability through their energy efficiency plan presents a clear contrast to the perceived challenges within the Liberal Party. Whether this strategy wins over voters remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the race for the Tasmanian Parliament is shaping up to be a heated and closely watched contest.