A proposed cable making factory at Bell Bay needs federal support, says the Tasmanian government. Photo: Twitter / X
Federal funding is urgently needed if SunCable’s proposed $2 billion cable factory at Bell Bay is to be saved, says Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff.
He says the high voltage cable manufacturing facility is at risk without federal help.
“This transformative project will create up to 800 jobs during construction and 400 advanced-manufacturing jobs upon completion but we must secure Federal Government support,” Rockliff said.
“… I urge the Federal Government to come to the table before it’s too late.”
His call comes after he recently met SunCable executives to reaffirm the state government’s support for the project.
Rockliff says he contacted Canberra several times about the project, claiming it is a priority for his government.
“I am at a loss to understand why a project that clearly aligns to the Australian Government’s commitment to its Future Made in Australia plan … is in question,” he says.
Rockliff claims Canberra can approve a SunCable’s loan request through the National Constructional Fund or the Northern Australia Infrastructure Fund as part of the AAPowerlink project.
He says “Federal Government support is crucial”.
TASPORTS
Meanwhile, TasPorts has announced its vision for a Bass Strait Renewable Energy Terminal at Bell Bay.
TasPorts Chief Executive Anthony Donald says a dedicated terminal would require the development of up to 25 hectares at Bell Bay to support offshore wind projects in Bass Strait.
“The Port of Bell Bay’s proximity to Bass Strait renewable energy zones provides a significant strategic advantage,” he says.
“By unlocking this potential, we aim to deliver the infrastructure needed to attract investment and boost renewable energy generation for Tasmania and the nation.”
Donald says the terminal can deliver bespoke infrastructure, large-scale laydown and storage, and berthing facilities.
“The project has now passed the concept and identification phase, with timing of future phases carefully considered to align with the investment funding decisions of offshore wind proponents …” he says.
Work done so far includes market testing, extensive groundwork (including environmental studies) advanced drone and LIDAR surveys, and 3D bathymetry mapping to identify preferred reclamation areas.
A preferred project case is expected by mid-2025 with a business case due by mid-2026.
