In July, Tasmanian Governor Barbara Baker officially launched the Spirit of Tasmania V in Finland. Photo: Pinja Sarkkinen & Sammeli Korhonen.
The Tasmanian Government is facing another barrage of criticism following its announcement that it will delay the introduction of new Spirit of Tasmania ferries until the completion of their planned home at the East Devonport terminal.
In August, the island state appointed consultants, Peter Gemell and Ben Maloney, to advise the government on how best to proceed with the projects. Based on their recommendations, which were handed down last week, Premier Jeremy Rockliff and new Transport Minister Eric Abetz informed the public of revised timelines.
Originally the new terminal at Berth 3 East was expected to be complete in August, ahead of the already delayed first ship’s arrival. However, a contract failure saw the cost rise from $90 million to $370 million, prompting the State Government to propose a temporary terminal with ferry operator TT Line’s existing Berth 1 East.
This idea has now been rejected, forcing the government to add another year to the most recent completion date of early 2026. Minister Abetz, who took over former minister Michael Ferguson’s transport portfolio last month, said the proposal would have cost taxpayers up to $60 million, added safety risks and demanded expensive renegotiation of agreements.
“Ultimately, any financial investment into Berth 1E and Berth 2E would outweigh the benefits of bringing forward the timeline,” he said.
Despite this setback, Premier Rockliff claims there is hope for Berth 3 East to be ready for Tasmania’s 2026-27 tourist season.
Premier Rockliff followed the disappointing news with the announcement of a tourism and hospitality package, which he believes will complement the state’s expectations for growing visitor demand.
“I will also be bringing forward further proposed reforms to our government businesses shortly so that Tasmanians don’t experience a situation like this again,” he said.
Another recommendation from the consultants, which the State Government is now exploring, is to lease out the Spirit of Tasmania IV.
The ferry was delivered to TT-Line on 12 September but is still at the Finland shipbuilder’s yard. Its counterpart, Spirit of Tasmania V, is expected for delivery by early next year. Minister Abetz said the government still intended to complete the outfitting of both the vessels in Tasmania.
Michael Ferguson (left) relinquished his infrastructure portfolio in late August. Photo: Facebook.
State Opposition leader Dean Winter has labelled the situation as “the greatest infrastructure stuff-up in Tasmania’s history”, taking every opportunity to lambast the government. However the MP did welcome Premier Rockliff’s acceptance of their idea to add extra sailing days on the new Spirits.
Others are pushing for an inquiry into the port’s development, akin to the one held for the new ships.
Head of the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Michael Bailey, told media it was important to uncover the true cost of the berthing project.
An exception to the reception came from the Devonport Chamber of Commerce (DCCI).
President Claire Connelly said DCCI appreciated the Premier’s transparency and his determination to address the challenges.
“The expert report into the delivery of port infrastructure for our new Spirits provides valuable insights and helps us understand the necessity of the Premier’s intervention,” she said.
“The focus on delivering Berth 3 is a prudent decision as completion of this infrastructure is crucial for the economic growth and tourism potential of our region.”
The DCCI noted its commitment to ensuring the wider East Devonport area is carefully considered and planned for, with input from the community and its members. It also welcomes the previously mentioned support package, which includes reduced fares, additional sailing days on the existing vessels and vouchers aimed at supporting local tourism dependent businesses.
“This significant support package will provide a real boost to our economy,” said Ms Connelly. “Now is also the time to establish new flight routes to Tasmania and increase capacity of existing routes to drive visitation.”
