Cars for free via Spirit subsidy

PASSENGERS travelling to Tasmania on the Spirit of Tasmania ferries will be able to bring their cars for free thanks to a $ 6m boost from the federal government.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack will today announce funding to increase the subsidy for passenger vehicle bookings on TT- Line ferries and Bass Island Line service to King Island.

The subsidy — worth an average of $ 240 per traveller — will be in place for up to four months.

He said it was intended as a shot in the arm for the state’s pandemic- hit tourism sector.

“COVID- 19 has significantly affected tourism in Tasmania and the number of passenger vehicles travelling across Bass Strait which is why we are moving to increase the rebate already available under our Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme to the value of $ 6m,” Mr McCormack said.

“For travel between 1 March 2021 and 30 June 2021, Australians can take their car or motorbike to the Apple Isle at zero cost and discover everything this beautiful state has to offer — a win- win for both Tasmanians and visitors looking to discover more of what the island has to offer.”

Liberal senator for Tasmania Jonno Duniam wel

comed the announcement. “The coronavirus pandemic hit Tasmania’s tourism industry in an unprecedented way, with Spirit of Tasmania bookings dropping by up to 85 per cent,” Senator Duniam said.

“This new boost will bring more travellers to our island, providing the kickstart … that we need to rebuild tourism.

“That’s money they can now spend at small businesses, with tourism operators and in the many communities that are eager to welcome travellers back with open arms.

“In fact, these travellers account for 12 per cent of all visitors to Tasmania yet they contribute a massive 20 per cent of all annual visitor spending.”

The subsidy will apply for travel from March 1 and will be automatically applied when passengers book their ticket.

The subsidy will also apply to passengers transporting an eligible passenger vehicle between King Island or the Furneaux Group and the mainland.