Jeremy Rockliff has all but confirmed he plans to slug Tasmanians with a GP tax that will increase the cost of visiting a doctor by $15-20.
He is refusing to match Labor’s commitment to change the law to ensure GPs aren’t subject to payroll tax.
Instead, he is trying to trick Tasmanians by claiming there will be “no changes” to payroll tax – when he knows full well that sticking with the status quo means a new tax.
Treasurer Michael Ferguson also appeared to confirm the Liberals plan to impose payroll tax on GPs, saying Labor’s no tax stance would be costly.
AMA representative Dr Aaron Hawkins said payroll tax being applied would be “catastrophic”, and will lead to patients being charged an extra $15 per visit.
Tasmanians are in a cost of living crisis and more Liberal taxes is the last thing they need.
Jeremy Rockliff and Michael Ferguson need to stop with the weasel words – either back Labor’s commitment, or admit they’re planning a new tax on GPs.
It’s time for a better future. Labor has a plan to take urgent action on the cost of living, including categorically ruling out a new tax that puts up the cost of seeing a GP.
Anita Dow MP
Shadow Health Minister