Sarah Courtney,Minister for Hospitality and Events
The Tasmanian Liberal Government is a strong supporter of our world-class events sector and is committed to attracting, retaining and growing events that will drive economic growth in every region of the State.
In line with our $21.5 million election commitment, negotiations have now commenced with the organisers of six iconic Tasmanian events to deliver multi-year funding agreements and secure their future here in Tasmania.
We committed to commencing these negotiations in the first 30 days of a re-elected majority Liberal Government, and we are delivering on that promise.
The six events - the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, Dark Mofo, Festivale, Mona FOMA, Targa Tasmania and the Junction Arts Festival – are vitally important and iconic events for our State, attracting nearly 40,000 visitors to Tasmania in 2019-20.
Pre-COVID, the return on investment on these events was $170 million, and as we continue to bounce back from the pandemic, they will play a key role in continuing to drive our recovery and supporting jobs growth into the future.
Securing these iconic events will also complement our $8 million Events Support and Attraction Fund, which will attract new events to Tasmania and draw even more visitors to the state, spreading the benefits right across our economy.
Our strong investment has seen Tasmania recognised nationally and internationally for our unique home-grown festivals and bespoke events, and the strong plan we took to the election will ensure this can continue as we secure Tasmania's future.
