The Hodgman Liberal Government has a goal to transform Tasmania into the environmental tourism capital of the world to drive economic growth and create jobs.
We want to give more Tasmanians and visitors the opportunity to experience our unique, world class wilderness areas and that’s why we have a plan for sensitive and appropriate tourism offerings in our National
Parks and the World Heritage Area that are genuinely respectful of the natural and cultural values of those areas.
If fully realised, the 25 proposals currently going through an assessment process under the guidance of the Office of the Coordinator General would see more than $73 million in additional investment, 300 new jobs created and a net return to the state of around $30 million a year.
I’m extremely pleased to announce the first licence agreement has been signed with Freycinet Eco Retreat.
This agreement enables Freycinet Eco Retreat to provide guests with fully guided and interpreted 12 kilometre circuit walk through the Freycinet National Park to the Friendly Beaches and returning to their accommodation.
In the company of an expert guide, visitors will be able to learn about and appreciate the fauna, flora, cultural heritage and the geological features that are particular to the Freycinet area.
As well as expanding the scope of that business and the experiences on offer for visitors, the proposal will generate two new jobs on the East Coast.
This wilderness experience will be a major enhancement to the visitor experience provided by Freycinet Eco Retreat and also significant for growing tourism and supporting the East Coast economy.
Of the 25 proposals which proceeded to stage two of the EOI process, three have progressed to the leasing and licencing negotiations. These projects include Tasmanian Boat Charters, Trees Adventures and Blue Derby Pods Ride.
The remaining stage two EOI projects are progressing well under the guidance of the Coordinator General. Each of the projects are currently being considered further by the assessment panel according to timelines agreed to with the proponents and the Government is expecting advice from the assessment panel on a further 13 proposals in coming weeks.
We have a goal to attract 1.5 million visitors a year by 2020 to drive economic growth and create jobs for Tasmanians and we are already seeing the positive results, with visitor numbers going from strength to strength, national awards for our tourism operators and 4,500 jobs created since the election.
Matthew Groom, Minister for Environment, Parks and Heritage
