The state government has opened the door for investors to breathe new life into Hobart’s iconic Treasury Building complex, with a Registration of Interest process launched today.
Developers are being invited to submit proposals for the heritage complex comprising of eight buildings.
Treasurer Guy Barnett announced the initiative this morning alongside representatives from the tourism and business sectors, saying he wants to bring the buildings “back to life to provide for investment, development, jobs [and] a new economy”.
The complex comprises eight interconnected civic buildings with more than 8200 square metres of floor space, which the government believes could stimulate significant economic activity for the region.
“We have seen the amazing development at Parliament Square and the Tasman, which has not only preserved the heritage characteristics of the buildings but is now home to world-class hospitality offerings,” Barnett said.
The ROI process will remain open for a month, followed by an Expression of Interest phase and a Request for Tender stage expected towards the end of 2025.
Paul Jubb from the Tasmanian Hospitality Association said he is enthusiastic about the project, suggesting the site could join other successful heritage conversions in the area.
“Development is crucial for our tourism and hospitality development going forward,” Jubb said.
Jubb, who owns the Customs House Hotel on the waterfront, said the flow-on effect from the of the nearby Tasman Hotel and Parliament Square precinct has been “fantastic”.
“it’s important to grow our base and get iconic brands down here, say it’s Four Seasons or an iconic brand like that, that’ll bring more tourists, more accommodation to this hotel.
Michael Bailey from the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry described the current Treasury offices as “very underwhelming” and welcomed the opportunity for adaptive reuse.
“Behind us we have what could be a fantastic, adaptive reuse of a heritage site for all of Tasmania,” Bailey said.
The government has indicated it is open to all ideas for the site, with community members also invited to provide feedback through the project website.
