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Spirit of Tasmania update

Berth 3 Project

The Premier visited the site last week to receive an update on the works at Berth 3 which are progressing well.

Pile driving works are now over 80 per cent completed, well ahead of the estimated 60 per cent original target expected by Christmas.

Following the completion of these works, excavation and concrete works will begin in the new year in preparation for the major marine construction works starting early in 2025.

Activity on the site will increase in the New Year, and we will continue to provide updates on the progress.

The Public Accounts Committee will undertake a site progress update on Friday 20 December 2024.

Spirit of Tasmania IV

Work is continuing to identify potential leasing or chartering options for Spirit IV.

The ship continues to be berthed in Leith, Scotland for a minimum of 30 days at an average weekly cost of $47,534 AUD plus ancillary services.

Should the vessel remain in Leith beyond 30 days, the cost of berthing the vessel reduces significantly.

The Tasmanian Government’s priority is to seek the best possible financial return for Tasmanians and TT-Line has appointed a broker who specialises in leasing vessels.

The vessel is temporarily berthed in Leith while this work proceeds, ensuring Tasmanian taxpayers do not foot the bill for an estimated $8 million round-trip from Scotland to Tasmania and back.

Crewing costs would be incurred regardless of where the vessel was located and are currently estimated at $380,000 per month.

Crewing costs in Tasmania would be significantly higher due to differing domestic requirements, resulting in increased onboard crew numbers.

Tourism and Hospitality Support Package

The Tasmanian Government is working closely with the tourism and hospitality industry, together with TT-Line and Tourism Tasmania to progress the comprehensive support package that was announced in October.

The $28 million package aims to boost visitation around the State and support our local tourism and hospitality sectors, while the berthing infrastructure for the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels is completed.

The delivery of the package is being overseen by a Working Group that includes representation from airports, Regional Tourism Organisations, Tourism Tasmania, Tourism Industry Council Tasmania, Events Tasmania, Spirit of Tasmania, and Business Events Tasmania.

The following components of the package are already underway or being progressed, with more details to be made available soon:

  • A Tourism Tasmania intrastate campaign to inspire Tasmanians to make the most of the longer days and enjoy our tourism, hospitality and event experiences across the state this summer;
  • A $5 million Tasmanian Festivals and Event Support Fund to boost regional visitation and strengthen the Tasmanian economy during the shoulder and winter months;
  • A $5 million Spirit Preparedness Fund for both council and operators to support the development of new products and offerings, enhance existing attractions, and support Councils to deliver key infrastructure such as signage and charging stations;
  • A $10 million voucher program to encourage Tasmanians to travel and eat out, during the colder months;
  • A $6 million Spirit subsidised fee to boost demand and provide for additional day sailings;
  • A $5.5 million Aviation Fund to increase aviation capacity into Tasmania; and
  • Air and Hire Care Packages to support increased visitor dispersal by encouraging those arriving by air to get out and enjoy the regions.