What is happening at the port?
The East Devonport port is being upgraded to support and facilitate growth in the Bass Strait shipping services over the next 50 years. Parts of the port's existing infrastructure is nearing the end of its useful life, so by increasing cargo capacity, operational efficiency and modernising processes and technology, the redevelopment will future-proof Devonport’s important role as a trade and tourism gateway.
When will construction start?
Early works and site preparation began in 2021, with the bulk of the construction activities commencing in 2022, with major works expected to be complete by 2027.
How long will works take?
Between 5-6 years.
When will the two new Spirit of Tasmania’s arrive? How much bigger are the boats?
Spirit of Tasmania IV is expected to be delivered late 2024 and Spirit of Tasmania V is expected to arrive in Australia, in 2025.
The two new roll-on roll-off ships will be 212 metres in length. They will have significantly more capacity for passengers, passenger vehicles and freight vehicles, with the capacity to carry 1,800 passengers and with 4,098 lane metres for vehicles.
What’s in it for Devonport?
Our vision is to celebrate Devonport’s proud history as a gateway to Tasmania and a beacon of trade and travel for the future.
The Devonport QuayLink project is a $240 million investment in the City of Devonport that will generate over 2000 jobs during the 5-year construction phase.
It will enable an additional 160,000 passengers to enter Devonport annually, adding an expected $200 million to tourism expenditure in Devonport and across the state per year.
The project has a key focus on 'Buy Local' procurement criteria to maximise local economic benefits.
How does this tie in with City of Devonport’s ‘Living City’ Project?
The project supports the Devonport City Council’s State Entry Project and an “early return” for visitors departing Devonport, which encourages passengers to stay an extra night prior to departure.
TasPorts and the City of Devonport are working together closely to ensure these projects are a success.
Will there be local job opportunities?
Over 2000 jobs will be created during the construction phase. This includes 1300 direct jobs and an estimated 800 flow on opportunities. Part of the Devonport QuayLink procurement strategy is to focus investment locally wherever possible to support the local business community. Local companies and contractors are encouraged to be a part of the project.
Will local contractors be considered for the works? How can we find out about work packages?
A key objective of the Devonport QuayLink project is to buy local. This includes goods as well as services. Tenders will be advertised and interested contractors can find out about upcoming work packages by tracking Tenderlink, attending regular industry briefings and keeping an eye on this website.
Will there be dredging of the port?
Yes. We have completed the dredging as part of the Terminal 3 berth extension activities. Around 45,000 cubic metres of hard and soft spoil has been extracted from the berth pocket. Two thirds of this has been dried out and used for landscaping at the Devonport Airport. The other third has been reused in the reclamation.
TasPorts set up a Technical Advisory Consultative Council (TACC) to deal exclusively with the dredging activities, which includes key government and industry stakeholders. For more information, please visit the TACC information page.
Why upgrade Berth 3 instead of Berth 1?
Berth 3 will be upgraded first to allow the Bass Strait operators to continue their activities as normal, until it is time for TT Line to move to Berth 3. TT Line ships will berth with stern upstream by utilising the swing basin as they enter the port instead of when they exit.
A number of options have been developed as part of the Port Master Plan and the chosen solution is supported by the major port users and provides the most efficient long term layout for the port.
What new technology will be used?
The Devonport QuayLink project will deliver Tasmania’s first real-time three-dimensional vessel port monitoring system, solar technology upgrades to improve navigation, ship to shore power and electric vehicle charging stations.
What are the Project’s sustainability goals?
The Devonport QuayLink project will facilitate the opportunity for renewably sourced shore power along with electric car charging stations. Read more about our sustainability measures under the Environment tab.