The $130 million upgrade of the Hobart International Airport achieved a significant milestone this week, with work beginning on upgrading the runway to allow more tourists in, and freight out of the island state.
The upgrades will enable long-haul flight aircraft (such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350) to use the runway, which will open up competition allowing direct flights from Hobart to Asia and the Pacific.
The airport's taxiways, ground lighting, electrical systems and signage are also being improved.
This will be a win for local producers, allowing products to reach international destinations faster and in better quality.
The upgrades will create nearly 200 jobs through the construction phase, and is expected to be complete by May 2025.
The Hobart International Airport runway upgrades are jointly funded, with $60 million investment from the Australian Government, and 70 million from Hobart International Airport Pty Ltd.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"Upgrading the Hobart Airport runway will make a real difference to the economy of both the city of Hobart, as well as the state of Tasmania.
"This will benefit tourists and exporters, with larger aircraft able to land at the airport, bringing in more tourists from further afield through an Asian hub.
"The works are another example of the Albanese Government's commitment to investing in infrastructure which creates jobs and unlocks growth in our regional economies."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Franklin Julie Collins:
"This upgrade is estimated to indirectly create more than 1,200 new jobs across the state, and is more proof of our Government's sensible and measured investments which are paying real dividends for regions across Australia.
"The upgrade will unlock more freight opportunities for Tasmania - which is already known for some of the best seafood, fresh produce, meats, dairy and wines. This means a huge boost for the local agriculture industry."
