The Liberal Government is taking decisive action to return a direct international shipping service to Tasmania.
Recently, I wrote to a number of shipping companies, including local operators, noting that up to $11 million per year over three years is available from the Liberal Government.
I have invited expressions of interest in providing a solution to the lack of a direct international shipping service from Tasmania and the associated high cost to exporters, provided it can be transitioned to a viable and sustainable service in the long term.
Proposals must be submitted to the Government by June 30 for evaluation, and a determination on a preferred operator will be made by July 16.
Tasmania has been without this vital service since it was lost under the Labor-Green Government in 2011.
It has come at a high costs for our exporting industries, losing an estimated $20 million to $40 million dollars a year.
The Liberal Government is determined to address the crippling cost of export freight facing our state.
This action is just another example of the Liberal Government getting on with the job of delivering our long-term plan for Tasmania.
Rene Hidding, Minister for Infrastructure
