The City of Hobart has welcomed the Albanese Government's announcement of a significant investment in the Australian Antarctic Program, describing it as a critical boost for Hobart's future as a global Antarctic gateway.
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the announcement provides a positive boost for the sector.
The funding package includes more voyages of RSV Nuyina, Australia's state-of-the-art icebreaker operating from the Port of Hobart, additional scientific and technical jobs, and an extension of the life of the Australian Centre for Excellence in Antarctic Science.
Cr Reynolds said the investment reflects the importance the Australian Government places on the nation's interests in Antarctica and the significance of Hobart's Antarctic sector. The Lord Mayor also welcomed the commitment to more voyages of RSV Nuyina but stressed the need for supporting infrastructure to keep pace, including the Hobart refuelling solution so that the ship does not have to travel to Burnie for fuel.
Hobart is one of only five cities globally recognised as an Antarctic Gateway, hosting a sector that delivers world-class science, research, logistics, and governance capabilities. A recent Tasmanian Government report confirmed the sector's growing strength, with spending of $316 million in 2023–24 and supporting more than 1,100 jobs.
Quotes to be attributed to Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds:
"This announcement is very important for our Antarctic sector, as it recognises the need for more science voyages and the extension of important science programs and projects.
"The work being done at IMAS and through programs such as the Australian Centre for Excellence in Antarctic Science is influencing the highest levels of global decision-making around climate change. It is world leading program and that's why Council wrote to the Federal Government in August this year to advocate for long term funding certainty.
"Antarctica is an inherent part of our economy and what we have to offer the world. This announcement helps to ensure our ability to remain a world-leading hub of Antarctic science, research, and logistics.
"I would urge the Tasmanian Government to find a timely solution to the RSV Nuyina's portside refuelling issues in Hobart to support this important federal investment.
"With additional RSV Nuyina voyages planned, it's critical that these facilities which have been promised for some years are delivered without delay to maximise the benefits of this announcement."
