In a significant development for Tasmania's ferry service, the Tasmanian Government has directed state-owned ferry operator TT-Line to terminate lease negotiations for the new vessel, Spirit of Tasmania IV. Originally intended to transport passengers and freight across Bass Strait by last year, the ship has instead been berthed in the Port of Leith, Edinburgh, since early December.
The decision comes amid a broader investigation by the state government into potential leasing options for the vessel in Scotland. However, the Scottish government confirmed it had no plans to lease the Spirit of Tasmania IV for housing Ukrainian refugees, further complicating the situation. As a result, the Tasmanian government has made the decision to bring the Spirit of Tasmania IV back home.
Transport Minister Eric Abetz stated that the government had explored leasing opportunities but ultimately deemed it necessary to cease negotiations. "I'm providing advice that is consistent with the government's position, that the government has instructed TT-Line to cease those negotiations and to commence the relocation of Spirit IV to Tasmania," said Guy Barnett, Minister for Resources.
While the Spirit of Tasmania IV prepares for its return, Tasmania's second new vessel, Spirit of Tasmania V, remains under construction in Finland. Unfortunately, delays in infrastructure development at the port of Devonport mean that neither vessel is expected to operate between Tasmania and Victoria until 2027. A suitable berth is currently being constructed in Devonport to accommodate the Spirit of Tasmania IV.
Critics have voiced concerns about the government's leasing strategy. Tasmanian Labor Leader Dean Winter described the decision to explore leasing options as a “dumb idea,” stating, "Leasing the Spirits put our brand new ships at risk. It was probably Premier Rockliff's dumbest idea yet." He also expressed satisfaction regarding the ship's return, adding, "We welcome the ship coming home. It's yet another example where Labor has been leading and the Liberals have been following along."
Despite the setbacks, Minister Abetz emphasized the importance of exploring financial options for the state. He remarked, "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."
The Tasmanian government has committed to providing further updates regarding timelines for the vessel's return to Tasmania. Abetz noted, "A further update regarding timelines will be provided in due course," assuring residents that plans are in place for the ferry's future.
