Eat Local, Stay Local: Tasmania‘s $10 million travel voucher offer

By Kassia Byrnes
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Winter just got even more unique in Tasmania.

Winter in Tasmania is in a league of its own. Getting cosy by a fire with incredible views and even better food. Embracing the chill with a cold plunge. Spotting wombats during their peak season. Dark Mofo. It’s a wild place to be in winter, in all the best ways. And thanks to Tasmania’s Eat Local, Stay Local scheme, it just got even more accessible.

a wombat in the snow during tasmania winter

June to August are the best months to spot wombats. (Image: Getty/ Matteo Zonca)

From 2 June, Tasmania is rolling out the red carpet to get locals exploring their own state this winter, a traditionally quiet period for Tasmania tourism. The Eat Local, Stay Local scheme is set to distribute 100,000 vouchers worth $100 each to Tasmanians through a ballot system.

The $10 million voucher initiative can be redeemed on eligible accommodation, hospitality and visitor experiences.

people eating oysters at Swansea Beach Chalets in tasmania

Cosy up and enjoy Tasmania’s delectable food. (Image: Stu Gibson)

“Whether it’s a hotel room, a meal or an adventure, we’ve got part of the cost covered, so get out and explore Tasmania this winter," said Premier and Minister for Tourism, Jeremy Rockliff, in a statement.

“We are taking strong action to back the tourism and hospitality sector through our $27.8 million support package, which is boosting visitation and supporting Tasmanian businesses".

enjoy more of tasmania with the Eat Local, Stay Local scheme, like dove lake

This beautiful landscape only gets better in winter. (Image: Getty/ EyeEm Mobile GmbH)

Interstate visitors don’t miss out

For those of us out of state, there’s still something for you.

“Eat Local, Stay Local complements our Spirit of Tasmania Free Car Fare initiative, launched late last month to bring more interstate visitors into Tasmania to stay longer and spend more," said Rockliff.

From now until 31 October 2025, passengers with a ticket to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry can bring their car along for no extra cost.

“With this offer, we’re giving travellers the chance to explore Tasmania with total flexibility," said a Spirit of Tasmania spokesperson. “Having your own vehicle lets you discover Tasmania’s hidden gems — from cellar doors and farm gates to secluded cabins and misty mountain trails".

And they’re not wrong, road tripping is the ideal way to see Tasmania. Here are eight reasons to prove it.

Spirit Of Tasmania at Don Heads

It’s easier than ever to catch the Spirit of Tasmania. (Image: Jess Bonde)

Kassia Byrnes is the Native Content Editor for Australian Traveller and International Traveller. She's come a long way since writing in her diary about family trips to Grandma's. After graduating a BA of Communication from University of Technology Sydney, she has been writing about her travels (and more) professionally for over 10 years for titles like AWOL, News.com.au, Pedestrian.TV, Body + Soul and Punkee. She's addicted to travel but has a terrible sense of direction, so you can usually find her getting lost somewhere new around the world. Luckily, she loves to explore and have new adventures – whether that’s exploring the backstreets, bungee jumping off a bridge or hiking for days. You can follow her adventures on Instagram @probably_kassia.
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Aussie airline launches major sale to Tasmania with fares from $46

    By Rachael Thompson
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    Tourism Tasmania and Jetstar have launched a huge airfare sale from five major Australian cities

    Slurping the world’s freshest oysters on Bruny Island, hiking the iconic Overland Track, admiring the contemporary art at MONA and swimming in the pristine waters of the Bay of Fires – it might be Australia’s smallest state, but there’s so much to do all year-round in Tassie, it’s almost overwhelming. 

    And now, it’s easier and cheaper to experience The Apple Isle’s bounty as Jetstar has announced a huge sale with flights starting from as little as $46 one way.

    Wineglass Bay on a sunny day

    Visit stunning beaches like Wineglass Bay Beach. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    Discounts on flights from all five major cities have dropped, with one-way prices including: 

    – Melbourne to Launceston starting from $46

    – Melbourne to Hobart from $54

    – Sydney to Launceston from $55

    – Adelaide to Hobart from $85

    – Brisbane to Launceston from $95

    – Gold Coast to Hobart from $105

    Oysters and wine on a wine barrel overlooking a mountainous view.

    Tasmania is renowned for its fresh oysters. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    Tasmania offers an incredible range of things to do throughout the year, from unique cultural attractions and spectacular natural wonders to world-class wineries and gourmet food experiences. During the warmer months, make the most of the longer days by exploring idyllic beaches like Larapuna/Bay of Fires, named Tourism Australia’s Best Beach in 2025.

    Adventurers can take on the Three Capes Walk, a breathtaking multi-day hike along the dramatic coastline of the Tasman Peninsula, spotting migrating whales, echidnas, wallabies, seals and birds along the way. Meanwhile, food lovers can savour the region’s flavours at Festivale, Launceston’s vibrant three-day celebration of local produce, wine and entertainment.

    Aurora Australis over Tasman Island

    Catch the Aurora Australis over Tasman Island. (Image: Luke O’Brien Photography)

    During the “off season”, get cosy by a log fire in an alpine national park cabin or step outside to admire the Southern Lights as 2025 and 2026 are predicted to offer some of the best Aurora Australis viewing opportunities. For something special, visit Tassie in late April and May for “the turning of the fagus” where Tasmania’s only native-winter deciduous tree brings spectacular autumnal colours to Tasmania’s highlands.

    Cradle Mountain

    Cradle Mountain is perfect for nature lovers. (Image:
    Cultivate Productions)

    Jetstar’s sale to Tasmania applies to one-way flights only and excludes checked bags. Discounted fares are available on select dates from 16 October 2025 to 1 July 2026, subject to travel conditions. 

    Whether it’s a relaxed weekend escape or a thrilling multi-week adventure, now is the perfect time to fly south to this diverse island.