The Tasmanian state government is approaching a decision on whether to return the Spirit of Tasmania IV ferry to the state. Currently, efforts are underway to lease the vessel in the northern hemisphere until Devonport’s berthing infrastructure is prepared. Labor has criticized the government for spending over $1 million on berthing and associated costs in Scotland.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff emphasized the importance of due diligence to ensure value for taxpayers. Transport Minister Eric Abetz noted that crewing costs for the completed ship are $380,000 per month, with additional storage expenses. To mitigate the tourism industry’s annual revenue loss of $500 million due to ferry delays, the government has introduced a $24 million support package.
Labor leader Dean Winter criticized the expenditure as wasteful, highlighting significant costs and a lack of transparency regarding additional expenses.
