Construction has commenced on the redevelopment of Macquarie Wharf 6 in Hobart, a major port infrastructure project.
TasPorts has commenced early works on the Macquarie Wharf 6 redevelopment, marking the start of its largest infrastructure project to date and a major upgrade for Tasmania’s freight and port capabilities.
The redevelopment will deliver dedicated berthing for Australia’s icebreaker and research vessel, RSV Nuyina, as well as a permanent marine base for the Australian Antarctic Program. It forms the first stage of the broader Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment Project, supported by a $188 million investment from the Albanese Government.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt, said the project will provide critical infrastructure to support Antarctic science and operations.
“Antarctic and Southern Ocean science has never been more important, and the redeveloped wharf will support the Australian Antarctic Program to continue its critical work,” said Watt.
“This project secures Tasmania’s role as the gateway to East Antarctica and provides a permanent home tailored to the Nuyina – Australia’s world-class scientific and icebreaking ship.”
Tasmania Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Kerry Vincent, said the commencement of works represents a significant milestone for the state.
“The start of works on the first stage of the Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment Project is an important step forward for this nationally significant project,” said Vincent.
“It means jobs on the ground, local industry involved, and real progress on infrastructure that will benefit Tasmania’s economy for decades to come.”
The announcement follows TasPorts awarding the redevelopment contract to Hazell Brady in December 2025.
TasPorts Group Executive Major Projects, Assets and Technical Services, Michel de Vos, said a specialist project team is already in place and working closely with TasPorts to deliver the project.
“Detailed design is now underway with site investigations, including geotechnical surveys scheduled ahead of demolition in the coming months,” said de Vos.
“We’re proud to be partnering with the Australian Antarctic Division and Hazell Brady to deliver infrastructure of national significance that will support Antarctic research, trade and one of Tasmania’s key working ports for decades to come.”
Practical completion of the Macquarie Wharf 6 redevelopment is scheduled for August 2028.
In other news, a joint operation is targeting oversize overmass breaches.
