Tasmania’s Antarctic and Southern Ocean Sector powers ahead, driving strong economic growth

Tasmania’s deep connection with the Antarctic and Southern Ocean continues to deliver big wins for the state’s economy, with a new report confirming the sector’s growing strength and global reach.

Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Guy Barnett, said Tasmania’s international reputation as Australia’s Antarctic gateway is stronger than ever, underpinning jobs, innovation, and investment.

“Tasmania’s bond with the Antarctic and Southern Ocean is part of our identity – it’s who we are,” Minister Barnett said.

“This latest report shows our leadership in this globally significant sector continues to create high-value jobs, world-class research, and international partnerships that fuel Tasmania’s future.”

The 2023–24 Antarctic and Southern Ocean Economic Contribution Report reveals that the sector continues to be a cornerstone of Tasmania’s economy, building on more than a decade of detailed economic analysis and reporting.

“The Antarctic and Southern Ocean sector now supports more than a thousand Tasmanian jobs and shines a global spotlight on our expertise in science, logistics, and innovation,” Minister Barnett said.

“Tasmania’s role as Australia’s Antarctic gateway delivers enormous value, from high-paying, highly skilled jobs to international collaboration and the Tasmanian Government remains committed to supporting its continued growth.

“As our Antarctic connections continue to strengthen, so too does Tasmania’s reputation as a global hub of excellence - where science, sustainability, and opportunity meet at the edge of the world.”

Key Findings:
*    Total real spending by public sector Antarctic and Southern Ocean entities in 2023–24 reached $316.24 million.

*    The sector supported 1,166 full-time equivalent jobs, representing around 0.5 per cent of Tasmania’s total workforce.
*    Public sector full-time employment grew from 731 to 797 positions, with a total wage bill of $129.24 million.
*    The average wage in the sector was $162,164, significantly higher than the Tasmanian average of $93,795.

Regular publication of these reports ensures transparency and highlights the ongoing economic and strategic importance of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean sector to Tasmania.

The Tasmanian Government continues to back the Antarctic sector through a range of strategic initiatives designed to secure Tasmania’s place as Australia’s Antarctic gateway.

This includes implementation of the Tasmanian Antarctic Gateway Strategy, which provides a coordinated framework to strengthen economic, research, and logistical links with the Antarctic.