THE federal government will give Tasmania’s economic recovery a boost by injecting $6m into making it free for Spirit of Tasmania passengers to take their car to Tasmania.

Transport minister Michael McCormack said the move would increase passenger vehicle bookings on TT-Line and Bass Island Line ferries.

“COVID-19 has significantly affected tourism in Tasmania and the number of passenger vehicles travelling across Bass Strait which is why we are moving to increase the rebate already available under our Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme,” he said.

“For travel between 1 March 2021 and 30 June 2021, Australians can take their car or motorbike to the Apple Isle at zero cost and discover everything this beautiful state has to offer.”

Assistant minister for industry development Jonno Duniam said the Australian government was serious about ensuring the competitiveness of key Tasmanian industries, such as tourism.

He said Spirit of Tasmania bookings had dropped by up to 85% due to coronavirus.

“This new boost will bring more travellers to our island, providing the kick-start to 2021 that we need to rebuild tourism.

“It represents an average saving of around $240 return for travellers. That’s money they can now spend at small businesses, with tourism operators and in the many communities that are eager to welcome travellers back with open arms.”

In 2019-20, the Australian Government provided assistance for approximately 161,474 eligible passenger vehicles under the scheme.

The $6 million boost will apply to all new bookings for travel from March 1. When travellers book their ticket, the rebate will automatically apply to the purchase price of the ticket.

The rebate boost means the ticket cost of an average standard vehicle will be free, representing an average saving of $240 return for travellers. Ticket prices for motorbikes and pushbikes will also be zero.  Those travelling with a caravan or motorhome will also receive the average $240 return saving for their vehicle.

The subsidy will include passengers transporting an eligible passenger vehicle between King Island or the Furneaux Group and the mainland.

More details on the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme are available here: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/maritime/tasmanian-transport-schemes/bass-strait/