Assistant Minister for Industry Development Jonno Duniam has welcomed the first passengers arriving under the bring your car for free program on the Spirit of Tasmania today.

“So far more than 32,800 vehicles have booked to travel under the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme, which will bring a much-needed boost to tourism right across the state,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.

“The coronavirus pandemic hit Tasmania’s tourism industry hard, and bookings on the Spirit of Tasmania dropped by up to 85 per cent.

“Our $6 million boost is turning that around, with more than 13,700 bookings this month alone bringing travellers to our island and providing the kick-start we need to rebuild tourism.

“We know those who travel to Tasmania by sea stay longer, spend more and travel further into our regional areas.

“With more than 28,000 cars, 200 motorbikes, 1500 motorhomes and 1400 caravans booked on the Spirit of Tasmania under the program, it’s proving to be the incentive travellers needed to discover for themselves why Tasmania is the greatest place to holiday.

“For travel from today until 30 June 2021, or until the remaining $2.1 million in funding has been exhausted, travellers can bring their car or motorbike to Tasmania at zero cost and discover everything Tasmania has to offer.

“This represents an average saving of around $240 return for travellers, and those travelling with a caravan or motorhome will receive the average $240 return saving for their vehicle.”

More details on the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme are available here: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/maritime/tasmanian-transport-schemes/…

Media contact:

Assistant Minister Duniam's office: 02 6277 3034