Aviation Attraction Fund Tasmania

Purpose and Program Overview

The Aviation Attraction Fund, launched by the Tasmanian Government in January 2025, supports the development of new and extended flight routes to and from Tasmania. The program aims to increase air capacity, boost inbound visitation, enhance trade opportunities, and provide more travel options for Tasmanians, ultimately driving economic growth and job creation.

The total funding pool is $5 million over four years, with an additional $500,000 announced in October 2024 to further increase aviation capacity. It aligns with Tasmania’s tourism and economic strategies, fostering partnerships between airports, airlines, and government to stimulate regional economies through increased visitor spending.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: Up to $2 million (domestic routes); up to $3 million (international routes).
• Application open and close dates: Opened 13 January 2025; ongoing until funds are exhausted.
• Eligible industries or business types: Tasmanian airports, supported by airlines.
• Required co-contributions: Yes, applicants must provide co-funding.
• Location/state/territory applicability: Tasmania.

Priority Sectors

The Aviation Attraction Fund Tasmania prioritises aviation, tourism, and trade sectors, focusing on new domestic and international flight routes.

Funding Scope

• Minimum and maximum amounts:
  • Domestic routes: Up to $2 million.
  • International flights: Up to $3 million.
• Categories or streams of funding:
  • Domestic routes: New or extended seasonal services.
  • International flights: Securing direct international connections.
• Project timeline or eligible funding duration: Not specified; linked to route development timelines.

Grant Amount in Total

The full grant amount offered totals $5.5 million ($5 million initial + $500,000 additional).

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: Tasmanian airports or related entities.
• Registered business location: Tasmania.
• Minimum/maximum turnover: Not specified.
• Insurance or compliance obligations: Not specified.
• ABN/GST status: Active ABN required; GST registration if applicable.
• Additional requirements: Applications must be supported by an airline partner.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Risk-sharing with airlines through cost offsets or seat subsidies.
• Marketing campaigns and in-market promotions for new routes.
• Minimum revenue guarantees for flight services.
• Demand-building initiatives for aviation capacity.

Assessment Process

• Competitive or entitlement-based: Competitive, assessed in order of receipt.
• Key evaluation criteria:
  • Potential to boost economic growth and jobs.
  • Alignment with tourism and trade priorities.
  • Feasibility and co-funding commitment.

Recent Program Updates

The Aviation Attraction Fund Tasmania received an additional $500,000 in October 2024 as part of a tourism support package. In June 2025, the Tasmanian Labour Party criticised the program for failing to add new flights after 15 months, pledging reforms if elected. Applications remain open, with funding decisions ongoing.

Application Tips

• Secure airline support before applying.
• Prepare detailed proposals outlining economic benefits.
• Align projects with Tasmania’s tourism and trade goals.
• Submit applications early via the Department of State Growth portal.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group for an initial eligibility assessment and project alignment review. Visit the website of the Department of State Growth Tasmania for guidelines and support.