The Tasmanian Government will undertake a comprehensive, holistic strategic review of kunanyi/Mount Wellington.
kunanyi/Mount Wellington holds a special place in the hearts and minds of all Tasmanians and the Tasmanian Government is committed to a long-term vision.
Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, said the Tasmanian Government acknowledges there are challenges associated with the mountain, and is determined to understand what needs to change so that Tasmania’s future vision for the mountain can be turned into a reality.
“We have listened to key stakeholder groups including Hobart City Council, Destination Southern Tasmania, and the Tourism Industry Council Tasmania and we have heard the need to develop a longer-term strategic vision for the mountain,” Minister Abetz said.
“It’s clear that the land management, transport options, visitor infrastructure and cultural experiences are not up to standard for such an important natural asset.
“Under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we recognise the importance of our natural visitor economy, and the mountain is a critical part of this.
“The best way to tackle these concerns is for a comprehensive, holistic, strategic review led by the Tasmanian Government, in consultation with stakeholders, landowners and the public.
“There are many views on how the mountain should be managed and what improvements should be made, and we want them all on the table.
“Stakeholders have expressed a myriad of concerns relating to the mountain, including the desperate need for upgraded infrastructure, better access, transport solutions and fire management.”
The review will seek to capture the community’s long-term vision for kunanyi/Mount Wellington and find ways to tackle the challenges it faces, focusing on visitor experience, values and administration.
Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan said the review would build on the important work of the Wellington Park Management Trust, including the visitor strategy and management plan, providing a longer-term outlook for the mountain that encapsulates cultural, heritage, and environment values.
“The review will provide an opportunity for all Tasmanians to have their voices heard and I encourage everyone to help shape the future of this much loved and iconic natural landmark,” Minister Duigan said.
“The mountain is a Tasmanian landmark and our most visited natural asset, with total annual visitations to the mountain surpassing Cradle Mountain and Freycinet ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Park.
“In 2023, Mount Wellington attracted more than 410,000 local, interstate and international visitors, surpassing all other natural assets in Tasmania.
“But as our population and tourist numbers grow, now is the time to ensure the demands on the mountain can be managed and met.
“We know that high visitor volumes are placing strains on existing infrastructure and facilities which will need to be addressed.
“We need to get the long term vision for kunanyi right, so that Tasmanians can enjoy the mountain for decades to come.
“At the end of the day we want the mountain to be a safe, enjoyable and awe-inspiring attraction for locals and visitors alike.”
The Review will be led by the Department of State Growth in consultation with DPAC, NRET and Tourism Tasmania and key stakeholders and landowners. Initial consultation is due to commence in the second half of 2024.
