The Tasmanian advantage

For decades, Tasmania was viewed by the mainland as a scenic escape - a "boutique" market defined by tourism and artisanal exports. But according to Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff, the narrative has shifted. Tasmania is an economic powerhouse in the making.

In a landmark discussion on the Between the Lines podcast, Premier Jeremy Rockliff sat down with RWC CEO James Linacre and RWC Tasmania partner Tom Balcombe to outline why the island state has suddenly become a primary target for global institutional and private capital.

The green mandate

The cornerstone of this new "Tasmanian advantage" is the state’s unmatched energy profile. While other regions scramble to meet net-zero targets, Tasmania has already arrived, currently operating at 100 per cent renewable self-sufficiency.

"Our message to the investment world is simple: Tasmania is open for business," Premier Rockliff said. "We aren't just green by nature; we are green by design. For institutional investors with strict ESG mandates, Tasmania offers a level of certainty that is increasingly rare globally."

The Premier revealed that the state is not resting on its laurels, aiming for 200 per cent renewable energy by 2040. This surplus is expected to anchor new industrial sectors, from green hydrogen to advanced manufacturing, creating a significant ripple effect across the commercial property sector.

A market in transition

Tom Balcombe, who leads RWC’s Tasmanian operations, has seen this shift play out on the ground. He noted that the days of Tasmania being a "secondary thought" for national funds are over.

"The confidence is palpable," Mr Balcombe said. "We've seen an 18 per cent growth surge across our network recently, and Tasmania is a significant driver of that. We are moving away from purely private wealth and seeing major institutional inquiries. They aren't looking for lifestyle blocks; they are looking for high-yield industrial and commercial assets that offer long-term stability."

Building the stage

The state’s growth is underpinned by massive infrastructure projects designed to facilitate private enterprise. The Premier highlighted the Macquarie Point Urban Renewal and the delivery of the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels as critical pillars for the 2026-27 period.

"It’s about building the stage for private enterprise to perform," Mr Rockliff said. "Whether it’s logistics through our ports or the revitalization of Hobart’s waterfront, we are ensuring that the infrastructure meets the ambition of our investors."

The strategic outlook

For RWC CEO James Linacre, the state’s appeal lies in its partnership-driven approach. The alignment between government vision and commercial reality has created a rare "high-yield, high-stability" environment.

"What we’re hearing is a government that views private enterprise as a partner, not a hurdle," Mr Linacre said. "That alignment is what creates a high-yield environment. It’s why we’re seeing such aggressive interest in the Tasmanian market right now."

As Tasmania moves further into 2026, the strategy is clear: leverage natural advantages to create a modern, high-tech, and sustainable economy that serves as a blueprint for the rest of Australia.

WATCH THE WEBINAR HERE

HIGH-RES IMAGES HERE