I move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes that a recent poll in The Mercury newspaper found strong public support for light rail in Hobart;

(b) notes the significant benefits of light rail in Hobart, including:

  (i) the reduction in greenhouse gas and particulate emissions,

  (ii) the reduction in traffic congestion and associated improvements in amenity and productivity,

  (iii) the increase in value of property along and around the rail corridor,

  (iv) the opportunities for business growth along and around the rail corridor,

  (v) incentivising infill developments to limit urban sprawl, and

  (vi) the benefit to Tasmania's tourism industry of a direct rail link between Hobart and MONA; and

(c) supports light rail for Hobart.

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Leave is granted for one minute.

The commitment of the Tasmanian government, at the recommendation of Infrastructure Tasmania, to preserve the existing rail corridor from Macquarie Point to Granton is a sound decision. The project is at a very early stage and Infrastructure Tasmania has recommended further investigation to establish project feasibility, as there is insufficient information at this time to support an investment commitment. The project is not currently a priority for the Tasmanian government, who advise that priority should be given to other projects which address more immediate concerns. The Australian government will continue to engage with the Tasmanian government on infrastructure priorities within the state.

Question agreed to.