The future of Australia’s Antarctic Program in Tasmania has been assured, with the federal government confirming Hobart will remain the home port of the RSV Nuyina icebreaker for the next three decades.
The agreement between the federal and state governments includes $188 million from Canberra over four years to build a new Macquarie Wharf 6, which will house the Nuyina.
In return, the Tasmanian government will provide priority access to the wharf for the next 30 years, continued access to existing portside facilities during construction, shoreside power and a refuelling solution for the Nuyina in Hobart.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the investment is in the future of Australian science, Hobart and Tasmania.
“What this means is Tasmania will remain Australia’s gateway to Antarctica, as it should be,” he said.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the agreement secures a fit-for-purpose home port for the Nuyina.
“Tasmania has a proud heritage of supporting Antarctic and Southern Ocean endeavours with explorers and scientists using the Port of Hobart as a base for expeditions since the 19th century,” he said.
“As part of the agreement we will also deliver appropriate refuelling infrastructure for the Nuyina and other vessels coming into Hobart.”
The Antarctic and Southern Ocean sector employs nearly 1,000 people in Tasmania and contributes more than $183 million each year to the Tasmanian economy.
Currently, the Nuyina is unable to refuel in Hobart as it cannot safely pass underneath the Tasman Bridge.
Redeveloping the crumbling wharf is crucial to unlocking a wider $240 million federal investment in the Macquarie Point Urban Renewal Project, which includes a proposed multi-purpose stadium.
