Having previously laid into the lack of federal funding for Hobart as ‘scandalous’, Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds has outlined the council’s key priorities ahead of the upcoming federal election.
Reynolds said Hobart has consistently been given the cold shoulder during election campaigns, despite locals coughing up their “fair share” in federal taxes.
“Residents of Hobart … deserve to see some of this funding come back into infrastructure that can be used every day by the community,” Reynolds said.
Topping the council’s wish list is a $19 million package for Kunanyi/Mt Wellington to “enhance visitor access and enrich visitor experiences” for the 500,000 people the mountain attracts each year.
The package outlines $1 million will go towards replacing the summit boardwalk and $9 million toward upgrading ageing guardrails on Pinnacle Road.
The council is also chasing $7 million to address critical structural issues with the deteriorating roof at the Doone Kennedy Hobart Aquatic Centre, ensuring the popular facility remains both operational and energy efficient.
The biggest ask comes in the form of $60 million over five years to overhaul the New Town Sports Precinct, which currently services around 400,000 users each year.
Basketball facilities have also made the cut, with $25 million sought for a dedicated facility at Rugby Park, following a Basketball Tasmania audit that revealed greater Hobart is short 16 courts.
Transport infrastructure features prominently, with funding requested for the long-awaited Battery Point Shared Pathway to boost pedestrian and cyclist access along the waterfront.
Council documents reveal $4.2 million is being sought to make Collins Street’s cycle lanes “permanent”, despite the trial not yet being underway, plus another $3.4 million for expanded cycling infrastructure throughout the city.
Tackling the housing squeeze, the council has applied for $26 million through federal housing programs to unlock more supply, pointing to over “150 under-utilised sites” identified in North Hobart alone.
“We urge all federal candidates to support these city-shaping projects that will enhance the lives of our residents and future-proof Hobart for generations to come,” Reynolds said.
“We will continue leading the city’s advocacy efforts over the coming weeks and seek a commitment from our federal candidates to invest in Hobart’s future.”
