Press release – 28 June, 2017June 29, 2017: The Federal government’s threat to cut GST to state governments unless they allow unconventional gas exploration is a deplorable attempt at blackmail for the benefit of giant fossil fuel companies.Treasurer Scott Morrison has warned state and territory governments that they could face cuts to the amount of GST they’re given if they limit gas exploration via fracking following a Productivity Commission inquiry.
“This is yet another example of the willingness of the federal government to use public money in their quest to support the destructive and selfish fossil fuel industry,” Greenpeace Climate and Energy Campaigner, Nikola Casule, said.
“GST money is used by states to fund schools and hospitals and threatening to withhold it in order to serve fracking companies that threaten Australians’ health and livelihoods is deplorable.
“It isn’t enough for our governments to allow these companies to plunder Australia’s resources without paying a fair share of tax, or to push to funnel billions in public money into projects supporting them.
“Now they want to try to take money away from communities who desperately need it in an attempt to blackmail them into opening their doors to the dangerous and profiteering fracking industry.”
“The Prime Minister must immediately block this despicable and immoral proposal.”
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