The Liberal Party has promised to maintain the Australian Border Force presence at Hobart Airport until at least 2029 if elected next month.
The commitment aims to provide certainty for both the airport and potential airline partners as Hobart looks to expand its international connections beyond New Zealand into Asian markets.
Senator Claire Chandler said the ABF would continue operating within the existing airport footprint.
“This recognises the unique place that Hobart Airport holds, and the need to provide a fit-for-purpose ABF presence which will help to facilitate existing and future international flights into Asia,” Chandler said.
The announcement comes as the airport undergoes significant infrastructure upgrades, including a $130 million runway strengthening project expected to be completed by mid-year and a $200 million terminal expansion.
The runway upgrade will enable larger, long-haul aircraft to use the airport, potentially opening new direct international routes that previously weren’t possible.
The timing aligns with Air New Zealand’s scheduled return to Hobart in October following their seasonal break, resuming direct flights to Auckland.
For Tasmania’s premium exporters who rely on air freight capacity to reach international markets with time-sensitive products, expanded international connections could represent significant commercial opportunities.
Hobart Airport Chief Financial and Commercial Officer Kate Gillies said the ABF’s guaranteed presence is critical to the airport’s future and plans for expansion.
“Since Trans-Tasman flights commenced in 2021 more than 80,000 international passengers have been processed at Hobart Airport, a testament to the ABF and our broader team too,” she said.
“I now look forward to working with Federal Labor to secure their commitment to the vitally important presence of the ABF at Hobart Airport.”
