2 March 2025
Eric Abetz, Minister for Transport
The Tasmanian Government has instructed TT-Line to cease negotiations and continue plans to relocate the Spirit of Tasmania IV to Tasmania.
TT-Line has been engaging with a broker in good faith; however, it has become evident that an agreement will not be reached.
As a result, TT-Line has been instructed to continue preparations to relocate the vessel to Tasmania.
Minister for Transport, Eric Abetz, said that the Tasmanian Government has done all it could to deliver a lease that would be beneficial for Tasmanians.
“We have always acted in the best interests of the Tasmanian taxpayer,” Minister Abetz said.
“We had an opportunity to secure an agreement worth tens of millions of dollars for the Tasmanian taxpayer, and it would have been economically irresponsible not to explore this.
“Previous similar leases provided more than 50 million euros to vessel owners, and it was prudent that we sought similar arrangements for Tasmanian taxpayers.
“Sadly, Labor's negativity surrounding the matter has not helped and disparaging commentary has harmed the State’s economic interests.
“The relentless negativity is hurting the state’s economic opportunities, and it’s time to move forward together.
TT-Line will continue with plans to relocate the vessel, and a further update regarding timelines will be provided in due course.