The Tasmanian Government is investing $16 million into upgrades at the Port Arthur Historic Site over the next two years.
Arts Minister Madeleine Ogilvie said the funding, part of the upcoming state budget, will allow the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority (PAHSMA) to make ‘essential improvements’ and ensure the site remains a popular tourist destination.
“Our Budget will support our heritage sector and ensure Tasmania continues to be the best place to live, work and raise a family,” she said.
“This investment will enable PAHSMA to focus on its core mission of conserving, maintaining and interpreting this world-renowned heritage site.”
The upgrades will address infrastructure issues and support growth in the local community and tourism sector, Ogilvie said.
“In addition to servicing the UNESCO World Heritage Site, PAHSMA provides water and sewerage services to a number of local businesses and residents on the Tasman Peninsula,” she said.
“These upgrades are critical to supporting growth for both the local community and tourism sector.”
The upgrades will also enhance the site’s capacity to deliver visitor experiences and preserve Tasmania’s cultural heritage, she said.
The state budget will be handed down on September 12th, with the state opposition saying they are ‘preparing for a disaster’.
“When Treasurer Michael Ferguson delivers the state budget on Thursday, there will be no way for him to spin out of what a disaster it really is. This will be the worst and most unsustainable budget in Tasmanian history,” Shadow Treasurer Josh Willie said.
