At a time when most costs are going up, Devonport City Council is proposing something different-free entry to the Bass Strait Maritime Museum for all Devonport residents.
The initiative is part of the Council's 2025/26 Annual Budget, set to be considered at the Council meeting on Monday, 23 June 2025. If adopted, the change will take effect from 1 July 2025.
"This is a small financial impact, and it's built into the budget as something exclusively for our Devonport residents," said Mayor Alison Jarman.
"It's our way of giving back to the community-opening the doors to our Maritime Museum so more residents can enjoy and take pride in Devonport's history, free of charge."
The Bass Strait Maritime Museum is one of Devonport's key cultural attractions, featuring stories and exhibitions about the region's shipping, navigation, and life on the water. Council hopes the initiative will encourage increased visitation from residents of all ages.
Residents will also have free access to the Museum's popular SS Woniora shipping simulator-an immersive experience that puts visitors at the helm, navigating the Mersey River and Bass Strait from a virtual ship's bridge.
This proposal reflects Devonport City Council's commitment to creating accessible, meaningful experiences that add value to everyday life-while staying grounded in local identity.
The Bass Strait Maritime Museum is open 7 days from 10am to 3pm. Standard entry prices remain for visitors from outside Devonport-$10 for adults, $8 concession, $5 for children, with free entry for under 5s. A family pass (2 adults and up to 6 children) is $25, and discounts are available for tour groups. All visitors are warmly welcomed to explore the Museum's rich exhibitions and hands-on experiences.
