Tasmania is Australia’s one-of-a-kind island state. Visitors choose Tasmania for its rich heritage, pristine environment, gourmet food and thriving cultural and creative scene. Tasmania’s tourism operators generate the character, experiences and innovation that bring Tasmania to life for visitors. The state presents abundant opportunities for new tourism operators that can develop exciting products and life-changing visitor experiences.
Tasmania’s growing reputation as a gourmet destination means abundant opportunities in artisan produce. Innovators are crafting exceptional products and experiences that are enticing visitors to Tasmania – and winning global fame. There’s now a strong pipeline of investment in small-batch produce, whisky and gin distilleries, cellar doors, cheese, and truffles, as well as growing interest in traditional practices such as fermentation.
Tasmania’s tourism workforce is stable, flexible and innovative – all at a low cost per employee compared to the mainland. The local tertiary education sector generates a steady supply of skilled workers, with TasTAFE and other vocational education and training providers offering practical, hands-on industry learning. At the same time, the University of Tasmania – a rapidly emerging leader in tourism education and research – teaches several degree-level courses and collaborates with industry on tourism research.
Incentives, grants and support
Bring your tourism business to Tasmania and you may qualify for services, resources and support from:
- The Business Growth Loan Scheme provides concessional business loans to support growth and employment.
- Migration Tasmania runs the Business Migration Program, attracting and leveraging investments from high-calibre foreign investors.
- The Office of the Coordinator-General provides support to major investors and businesses moving to Tasmania.
Tourism industry bodies, including the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Hospitality Association, are a strong voice for Tasmania’s tourism operators. Four Regional Tourism Organisations set the strategic direction for tourism in their regions. Regional economic development groups and local governments also support tourism in the regions.
Case study
One of the most significant hotel investors in the state is Fragrance Group. Its first Tasmanian hotel, the Ibis Styles Hobart, was named as Australia’s first and only 5-star Green Star certified hotel. Among other projects, the group has since purchased the development rights for the 6-star Movenpick hotel in Hobart.