Building Tasmania by fast-tracking more development

26 August 2021

Michael Ferguson MP

Minister for State Development, Construction and Housing

The Tasmanian Liberal Government is transforming Tasmania’s economy through a range of initiatives to develop and build the State.

The 2021-22 Tasmanian Budget delivers a significant $64.6 million for the Macquarie Point Development Corporation to bring more of this waterfront development to life much earlier than envisaged, supporting jobs and stimulating the economy. This certainty will get the next development stage to market sooner and provide the foundation for well over half a billion dollars of investment to take place.

The funding for Macquarie Point is split between operating and capital works over the Forward Estimates. The first development stage, The Escarpment, is a 9.3 hectare site containing three building envelopes and is zoned Mixed Use. The Escarpment is expected to attract more than $60 million worth of private investment and incorporate public amenity and green space.

This Budget also provides a $42.15 million investment in the Hobart Showground at Glenorchy which will be provided over three years to revitalise the showground and provide for the construction of 450 homes. The Renewal project is a contemporary vision that will create a vibrant, connected community.

A master plan and renewal project for the full development of the Showground has been developed by Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania (RAST) which includes a range of social, affordable and rental homes, a new exhibition pavilion, arena and infrastructure.

Now more than ever, it’s important that we take action to meet increased demand for housing as a result of economic strength, increased employment and a growing population. That’s why the Government’s innovative ancillary dwelling program is so important. Grants of $10,000 are available to the first 250 eligible applicants that submit a complete application. To be eligible for funding applicants must construct a new ancillary dwelling and make it available for long-term rent for at least two years, helping encourage greater supply of rental properties in Tasmania and address affordability.

The Tamar River estuary and its tributaries, the North and South Esk Rivers, are the lifeblood of the Tamar Valley. That is why the Government has committed $4 million over the next two years to fund a site specific dredging program to be established immediately. The Government is also committing up to $1 million per annum over the next four years to support the establishment and ongoing operations of the preferred governance model.

In order to support the Government’s ambitious infrastructure program, $9 million has also been allocated to develop a High Vis Army so that industry can grow its workforce by 25 per cent. This initiative will support Master Builders Tasmania, the Civil Contractors Federation and Housing Industry Association in their efforts to develop their industries’ workforce and provide additional training that will attract and retain more workers to the industry to help build Tasmania’s future.

This Budget is continuing to invest in the transformational projects that provide long lasting and generational benefits, to secure Tasmania’s future.