Labor stands shoulder to shoulder with Tasmanians who oppose the Morrison Government’s plans to move Tasmanian Bureau of Meteorology weather forecasting services to the mainland.

Emergency services, farmers, fishers, bushwalkers, boaters, surfers and the tourism industry rely on accurate, local forecasts.

To join the 2,500 Tasmanians who have called on the Government to keep Tassie weather forecasting local sign the petition at https://savetassieweather-juliecollins.nationbuilder.com/

Thanks to Brighton Council Mayor Tony Foster for showing us your exciting plans for their sports precinct in Pontville. Great to catch up and discuss the proposal with Brian Mitchell Federal MP for Lyons and Shadow Minister for Sport Senator Don Farrell.

Just visited the fantastic Old Kempton Distillery – one of 40 distilleries in Tasmania. Tasmanian whisky is gaining a global reputation for its quality and is attracting new visitors to our state. This is great for our regional economy. Old Kempton Distillery on its own employs 16 locals.

Thanks to James and the crew for their hospitality. If you’re a fan of whisky (or other spirits) and you’re traveling down the Midland Highway why not drop in and pay them a visit? And if you’re not a fan of whisky the scones and coffee are pretty good too.

Early childhood educators walked off the job today and rallied for equal pay. Workers in early childhood education, a female-dominated industry, receive around 30% less pay than male dominated industries with similar skills.

As a former early childhood educator, former union official and now a Senator I have campaigned for better pay and conditions for early childhood educators for about thirty years.

I congratulate United Voice for continuing the fight for equal pay with this campaign. A Labor Government will make sure our industrial relations system has the power to fix the pay gap and ensure women are able to participate in the workforce on equal terms with men.

While Tuberculosis (TB) infections are at low levels in Australia, around 10.4 million people are still diagnosed with the disease worldwide each year.

Tragically, 200 people die every hour from TB around the world. That’s one every 18 seconds.

These deaths are avoidable and unacceptable.

I was delighted to attend a ceremony at the Clarence City Council chambers today to induct new Australian citizens.

Congratulations on your citizenship. Thank you for choosing to call Australia home and for your contribution to the rich fabric of our multicultural society.