Federal funding boost to tourism in the far North West

A major milestone has been reached with the signing of a $12.5 million deal between the Australian and Tasmanian Governments to attract tourists to the far North West Coast. 

The Albanese Labor Government’s $12.5 million funding will go towards the remediation of the old Dismal Swamp site, and the development of a tourism adventure hub to draw thousands of new visitors to the area. 

The project is expected to attract an overall investment of $40 to $50 million, providing a significant economic injection into the region. 

The Federal funding will make way for the Tasmanian Department of State Growth to seek investor and developer interest through an Expression of Interest process expected to open in the coming weeks.  

Transforming the neglected Dismal Swamp is part of a wider initiative to kickstart the growth of tourism in the North West region and wider state. 

The $12.5 million project is fully-funded by the Albanese Government. 

Quote attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:

“This project is an investment in the tourism future of the far North West of Tasmania, complementing the area’s amazing natural environment with an exciting new visitor experience.

“The new hub will bring a fresh vision and new ideas to the area and is projected to attract an additional 10,000 visitors to the region each year.” 

Quote attributable to Anne Urquhart, Labor Duty Senator for Braddon, Senator for Tasmania:

“This Federal funding is a shot in the arm for tourism on the far North West coast. It comes as a result of my advocacy for the electorate of Braddon and the determined work of local tourism operators. 

“The Albanese Labor Government is supporting a crucial first step of a project that will generate income and support good jobs in the far North West, and introduce thousands of tourists every year to our wonderful region.

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Premier and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Jeremy Rockliff:

“We are building on Tasmania’s reputation as a world-leading tourism destination and highlighting Tasmania’s unique experiences.

“The tourism and hospitality industries are a jobs powerhouse, employing one in eight Tasmanians across the State including many people in our regions. 

“We see this site becoming a world-class visitor hub for cultural and nature-based experiences within the broader far North West region, which is expected to attract an additional $9 million in annual visitor expenditure across the state.

“Project Far North West will be able to capitalise on the booming caravan and camping sector, as well as the introduction of two new Spirit of Tasmania passenger vessels, which will have greater vehicle capacity.

“We expect the operation to feature a range of accommodation options and immersive nature-based experiences.”

Quote attributable to CEO of Tourism Industry Council Tasmania Amy Hills: 

“This development is vitally important to ensure we are encouraging our visitors coming off the Spirit of Tasmania ferries to explore the far North West, especially those travelling in camper vans and motor homes.”

Quote attributable to CEO of West by North West Gabriella Conti:

“This project will serve as a key anchor, encouraging visitors to turn right after they disembark the Spirit of Tasmania and explore the untouched beauty of the far North West region.”