Tasmania’s hotels and accommodation venues have recorded their second-best August ever, with occupancy rates climbing to 64.27%.
The figure marks a jump from 61.42% in August 2024 and – according to Hospitality Tasmania – caps off the state’s second-strongest winter period “on record”.
Only August 2022, when Tasmania was still experiencing a post-pandemic tourism boom, produced better results.
Hospitality Tasmania chief executive Steve Old said the numbers showed the state’s quieter months were strengthening.
“While August has traditionally been a quieter time, events like the Beaker Street Festival, Whisky Week, Chocolate Winterfest in Latrobe and the inaugural Illuminate the North West drew visitors from across the country,” he said.
The north led regional performance with 72.02% occupancy, followed by the south at 71.08%.
The north-west recorded the biggest year-on-year jump, surging 7.23% to reach 47.69% occupancy. The east coast rebounded strongly to 51.18%, up 6.36% from 12 months earlier.
Average room rates across Tasmania reached $201.32, up $4.34 from last year. Revenue per available room climbed to $129.39, an increase of $8.40.
Old said the results demonstrated the value of Tasmania’s event calendar and marketing campaigns.
“Every extra visitor booking a hotel room means more meals in our restaurants, more drinks at our bars and more spending in our regional towns,” he said.
He said continued investment in events and infrastructure, including the Macquarie Point stadium, could push winter occupancy rates above 70%.
Tourism Minister Jane Howlett said the results reflected the importance of events and efforts to encourage people to visit Tasmania.
“We will continue to back the hospitality sector to help these businesses to grow, invest and create jobs,” she said.
The industry is now turning its attention to spring and summer, with a packed events calendar expected to maintain momentum through the warmer months.
