The Tasmanian economy will be boosted, roads will be safer and thousands of jobs created, with a $360 million investment into transport infrastructure from the Federal Coalition as part of our COVID-19 economic recovery plan.
The latest funding injection builds on a series of statewide infrastructure investments from the Commonwealth in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic which now total more than $410 million.
Key investments for Tasmania include $150 million for the Midway Point Causeway (including McGees Bridge) and Sorell Causeway as part of the Hobart to Sorell Roads of Strategic Importance corridor, and $65 million to upgrade the Tasman Bridge.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Tuesday’s Federal Budget would deliver funding for infrastructure which supports the Government’s JobMaker plan and help Tasmania recover from COVID-19.
“We have been working closely with state and territory governments to invest in the infrastructure that is ready to go and can help rebuild our economy and create more jobs,” the Prime Minister said.
"These projects will keep commuters safe on the road, get people home to their loved ones sooner and provide better transport links for urban and regional communities.”
“As part of the COVID-19 economic recovery plan we have invested an additional $410 million focused on shovel-ready projects across the state.
“This latest investment will provide another boost to the local economy and is part of our plan to support an estimated 2,200 direct and indirect jobs across the state.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Government is focused on delivering priorities and boosting local jobs as part of Australia’s road to recovery.
“We will draw on local businesses to stimulate local economies through these projects,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“Infrastructure means jobs, it means livelihoods, it means stronger local communities and it means building a better and more secure future for our nation.”
Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the Government is driving the delivery of major infrastructure projects to map the economic road back from the pandemic, building the economy and providing certainty for business over the long term.
“Key investments across Tasmania include $150 million to upgrade the Midway Point Causeway, including McGees Bridge, and the Sorell Causeway as part of the Government’s Hobart to Sorell Roads of Strategic Importance corridor investment,” Minister Tudge said.
“Building on our substantial investments under the Hobart and Launceston City Deals, the Australian Government will continue to invest in the Tasmanian economy in the coming years, including through new projects such as $65 million for the Tasman Bridge Upgrade.”
Since being elected in 2013 the Liberal and Nationals Government have committed more than $3.2 billion for infrastructure in Tasmania.
Tasmania - 2020-21 Budget Projects
| Project | Federal funding | Total cost |
|---|---|---|
| Freight Bridge Upgrades | $12 million | $15 million |
| Hobart to Sorell Corridor – Midway Point Causeway (including McGees Bridge) and Sorell Causeway | $150 million | $187 million |
| Midland Highway Safety Works Package - Powranna Road to South of Symmons Plains and Tunbridge | $7.1 million | $10.2 million |
| Tasman Bridge Upgrade | $65 million | $130 million |
| Tasmanian Roads Package - Bass Highway targeted upgrades between Deloraine and Devonport | $40 million | $50 million |
| Tasmanian Roads Package - Bridport Road freight efficiency and safety upgrades | $16 million | $20 million |
| Tasmanian Roads Package - West Tamar Highway targeted upgrades between Exeter and Launceston | $16 million | $20 million |
| Subtotal | $306.1 million | $432.2 million |
| Project | Additional Federal Funding | Total Federal Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Tasman Highway Intelligent Transport Solutions | $1.5 million | $11.5 million |
| Tasmanian Midland Highway Upgrade – Future Priorities | $52 million | $113.9 million |
| Subtotal | $53.5 million | $125.4 million |
| Total new funding | $359.6 million |
|---|