Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein says he will not allow international students from other states to quarantine in Hobart despite NSW insisting it is a plan under consideration.
NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and the head of NSW Treasury Michael Pratt revealed on Monday that “extensive discussions” were underway with Tasmania about using Hobart hotels for students.
The Premier of Tasmania Peter Gutwein says seasonal workers and the state’s own international workers are his priority.Credit:Alex Ellinghausen
However, Mr Gutwein poured cold water on the plan on Tuesday morning, saying his government’s focus was on seasonal workers and its own international students.
“The Tasmanian government confirms it has received an approach from the NSW government to quarantine international students on their behalf,” Mr Gutwein said in a statement.
“At this time, however, we have advised this is not under consideration with our priority remaining the safe management of seasonal workers entering the state and our own international students when public health advice is that it is safe to do so.”
However, Mr Perrottet has not given up on the plan, which included requiring NSW universities to contribute to the cost of quarantine.
“I remain committed to finding a way to return this vital industry to NSW and will continue to work constructively with colleagues such as Mr Gutwein to find a solution,” Mr Perrottet said.
NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet told estimates that he still hopes a deal can be made with Tasmania.Credit:Edwina Pickles
Mr Perrottet has expressed frustration with the current quarantine system, which sees NSW taking the bulk of returning Australians but means it cannot also cater for international students.
