Cradle Coast Authority (CCA) has launched the Cradle Coast 2025 Federal Election Key Priorities, calling on the Australian Government to support strategic investments that will drive economic growth, environmental sustainability and community resilience across north-west and western Tasmania.
Representing regional councils, CCA has identified key projects requiring federal investment to ensure our region continues to be an attractive place to live, work, learn and invest. These priorities align with our long-term vision for sustainable development and environmental protection.
Cradle Coast 2025 Key Priorities
We are calling on the Federal Government to commit to:
- $1.5 million over three years to develop a Roadmap to Regional Planning and Engagement to guide the region through the transition to clean energy;
- $525,000 to activate the Clean Energy Skills and Training Network;
- $1.3 million to complete the vision of a fully connected and sustainable Shared Coastal Pathway;
- $450,000 over two years to support councils and communities in adapting to climate change and mitigating future risks; and
- Natural Resource Management (NRM) initiatives – over $2.2 million for key projects, including roadkill mitigation for Tasmanian Devils, wetland restoration, fish barrier removal, and sustainability programs for farmers.
CCA Chief Executive Officer, Sheree Vertigan AM highlighted the importance of federal support in delivering these initiatives.
“Our region has huge potential, with strong industries in manufacturing, agriculture, aquaculture, fishing, forestry, tourism and emerging renewable energy. These strategic priorities will unlock new opportunities, create jobs and certainty whilst safeguarding our environment and ensuring we have the skills and workforce to thrive in the future,” Sheree said.
The Cradle Coast is at the forefront of Tasmania’s renewable energy transition, with over $10 billion in investment-ready projects and the recently announced Tasmanian Clean Energy Centre of Excellence, which will be built at TasTAFE’s Burnie campus. The Roadmap to Regional Planning and Engagement, combined with the Clean Energy Skills and Training Network, will ensure the region maximises the benefits of this transition while supporting local communities and industries.
The Shared Coastal Pathway has transformed the region by creating an important active transport link between communities and boosting tourism and local economies. By completing the missing sections and enhancing existing infrastructure, the project will unlock new opportunities while supporting healthier lifestyles.
“These projects are about ensuring the Cradle Coast remains a place where businesses want to invest and where people want to live, work and visit,” said CCA Chair the Hon. Sid Sidebottom.
“We are calling on all federal election candidates to commit to these priorities and work with us to secure a strong and sustainable future for our region,” Sid said.
CCA has been engaging with federal representatives and candidates in the lead-up to the election to advocate for these priorities.
Click here to read or download the Cradle Coast 2025 Federal Election Key Priorities statement.
