A new agreement between TasPorts and Strait Link is set to keep Tasmania’s main shipping terminal running for up to 30 years, securing the island’s vital freight connection to the mainland well into the future.
The non-binding deal lays the groundwork for Strait Link to continue operating out of Burnie, giving long-term certainty to businesses that rely on dependable Bass Strait shipping services.
Under the arrangement, the Port of Burnie will remain Tasmania’s key freight hub, with both sides aiming to lock in the final agreement by mid-year.
TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald said the agreement would support future infrastructure planning and investment.
“This is a significant step forward for Burnie and Tasmania’s supply chain resilience,” Donald said.
“The agreement secures essential freight operations, enabling reliable, daily transport between Tasmania and mainland Australia.”
The agreement also introduces a pricing structure in line with TasPorts’ Schedule of Port Charges, giving freight users more predictability on costs while backing future port development.
For Tasmanian producers, manufacturers and exporters, it means steady access to shipping services that link the state to national and global markets.
Strait Link CEO Geoff Gruebner said the deal gives the company the confidence to invest in the long term.
“This agreement gives us the confidence to invest in operational efficiency, adapt to the evolving needs of Tasmanian industry and work with TasPorts on smarter, more sustainable port solutions,” Gruebner said.
“Strait Link has undertaken financial modelling to ensure cost impacts for customers are minimised, while maintaining supply chain stability.”
Both parties are now working through the finer details of the final, binding agreement.
