The Tasmanian Government has announced it will partner with City of Launceston Council to progress the construction of a purpose-built $35 million convention centre for Launceston.
The centre proposed will be a 4,000m² convention facility, located approximately 50m north of the Peppers Silo Hotel, with capacity to host up to 1,000 people for major functions, supported by 300 on-site car parks and future hotel expansion opportunities as part of the wider Riverbend Master Plan.
Premier, Jeremy Rockliff said business events inject nearly $200 million into the state’s economy each year and demand is growing.
A study by Visit Northern Tasmania found a new purpose-built facility in Launceston would double business events in the North, resulting in nearly $30 million of additional economic activity to the region.
The Premier this week confirmed the Government will invest $10 million in the project.
“We are proud to be partnering with JMC and the City of Launceston to deliver a new convention centre for Northern Tasmania,” he said.
“This job-creating and economy-boosting development will unlock a new era of opportunity for Northern Tasmania by positioning the region as a must-visit destination for business events.
“It will generate tens of thousands of additional visitor nights, delivering significant flow on benefits for hotels, hospitality, retail and tourism operators.
“There will also be opportunities across high growth sectors including health, defence, advanced manufacturing, green energy, agriculture and science.”
In addition to the Convention Centre and riverbank restoration works, JMC Group has also committed to delivering a new 120-room hotel alongside the proposed Convention Centre.
Last year alone, 25,000 people attended business events in Tasmania – up 20% on 2024 figures.
The industry supports about 1000 jobs statewide, and more than 90% of delegates travel from interstate or overseas, staying longer, spending more and returning again.
The Premier said the convention centre will be the catalyst for further development, including infrastructure such as hotels, and the remediated Kings Wharf boardwalk.
The City of Launceston Council has committed $5 million toward critical Kings Wharf riverbank remediation works proposed by JMC Group, recognising both the cultural significance of the kanamaluka/Tamar Estuary and the urgent need to restore a long-neglected stretch of river edge.
The proposed works (pictured) – which include a new 400m, 15m-wide public boardwalk, landscaped green spaces, gazebos with amenities, improved access and parking – are essential to enabling the construction of a new Convention Centre Precinct adjacent to the Peppers Silo Hotel and Riverbend precinct.
“This is about restoring the kanamaluka/Tamar Estuary to the standard it deserves while unlocking a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Launceston,” said Mayor, Matthew Garwood.
