Concerns have been raised surrounding the completion timeline of refurbished port facilities in Tasmania, expected to be ready by early 2026. The delay in the completion of these facilities presents challenges for new ships that have not yet arrived, forcing them to operate below capacity using temporary berths until the infrastructure is ready.
Issues emerged when TT-Line unilaterally rescinded its preferred tenderer status decision while Tasmania's government was in election caretaker mode. This decision was made without passing on a report detailing concerns about the project, with a "junior staffer" within the government agency opting not to inform the minister due to "good intentions." Concerns have also been expressed by both the government and the company managing Tasmania's port facilities regarding the state-owned company operating the Spirit of Tasmania ferries and its ability to oversee the construction upgrades necessary for the new ships.
The Infrastructure Minister of Tasmania voiced concerns about TT-Line's capability to deliver the port infrastructure well in advance, dating back to late the previous year. Despite reassurances from TT-Line, issues continued to surface, prompting the Minister to call for increased involvement and oversight from the Department of State Growth. Additionally, the delay caused by TT-Line's decision to rescind its preferred tenderer status has led to the need for extended procurement processes or possibly starting anew. Moreover, delays have been exacerbated by concerns raised in a consultant's report and the lack of passing on critical information during the caretaker mode of the government.