Tasmania’s stunning Freycinet National Park is set for a facelift with a $7.2 million funding injection from the Liberal-National Government for tourism infrastructure upgrades.
Federal Minister for Tourism Simon Birmingham said the Freycinet National Park was a “must-see” attraction for domestic and international tourists, with three quarters of visitors to Tasmania’s East Coast region making a stop there.
“Freycinet National Park is one of Tasmania’s fastest growing tourism destinations, with visitation increasing at an average of 14 per cent per annum over the past five years,” Minister Birmingham said.
“Tasmania has a much stronger economy now than when we were elected and this investment will keep creating more tourism jobs and businesses opportunities in Tasmania.
“We know Wineglass Bay is one Tasmania’s most iconic tourism hotspots and is major drawcard to the state for thousands of tourists each year, and we want all visitors to have a memorable time when they’re exploring all that the Peninsula has to offer.
“This additional funding will create new transport infrastructure to reduce congestion and support the development of new shelters, lookouts and walkways throughout the National Park as well showcase the Freycinet’s rich Indigenous heritage.
“We want tourists exploring Freycinet National Park, whether it be trekking to the Wineglass Bay lookout, lazing on the numerous white-sandy beaches or taking in the breathtaking pink granite peaks to have access to the best possible amenities that enhances their experience.
“Tourists to the East Coast already spend $185 million each year and this infrastructure boost will ensure the quality of the visitor experience remains at the highest level and helps attract even more people to the region, supporting local businesses and tourism jobs.
“Tourism is a major contributor to the Tasmanian economy with domestic and international visitors spending a whopping $3 billion last year, injecting millions into regional areas and that’s why the Liberal-National Government is backing the state through investment in vital tourism infrastructure.”
These new infrastructure upgrades form part of the Freycinet Peninsula Master Plan with the funding allocation including:
- $5.7 million towards a new Visitor Gateway, including transit hub with new road access and car parking, shelter and information area.
- $650,000 for an Aboriginal education program and expanding the Discovery Ranger Program to allow visitors to learn about local Aboriginal cultural practices and heritage.
- $450,000 for a new Wineglass Bay lookout
- $400,000 for a foreshore walkway.
This funding is part of the Liberal-National Government’s $50 million National Tourism Icons package announced in the Budget for vital tourism infrastructure and upgrades at iconic destinations across Australia.