Major Milestone Reached in the Launceston Airport Translink Facility Project
Posted on April 28, 2026
24/04/2026
In early 2024 Northern Midlands Council secured a grant of $5 million through the Australian Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program to fund the preparation of a feasibility study and business case for a proposed intermodal facility* in the Launceston Airport TRANSlink precinct. This project has taken a major step forward, with the functional design and master planning phase now underway
*An intermodal terminal is a freight hub where goods are transferred between road, rail sea or air. A successful terminal supports a faster, more efficient, reliable and competitive supply chain by connecting the freight transport network with co-located industrial and logistics land uses as part of an integrated precinct. This promotes more freight to move by rail, reducing truck movements on the road network, and supports jobs, productivity and regional growth.
With Infrastructure Australia’s March 2026 Priority List identifying High Productivity Freight Networks as a national investment priority, the proposed intermodal facility is positioned as a critical project to transform the region’s freight and logistics landscape and support this national agenda.
Council contracted Northern Tasmania Development Corporation to work with all relevant stakeholders to develop the feasibility study and business case and is pleased to advise that the feasibility study component has now been completed.
The Feasibility Study has provided a sound basis for the project and has confirmed the need for an intermodal facility in Launceston. It has also identified a range of viable options to address the need for investment in freight demand and regional opportunities to further support the community.
Work is now underway on the detailed business case which will include functional design and master planning as well as detailed analysis of infrastructure and non-infrastructure solutions. A shortlist of preferred options is expected by the end of June 2026 to support delivery of an investment-ready business case for government consideration.
Northern Midlands Council Mayor, Mary Knowles OAM, said the milestone marks an important step toward strengthening the region’s freight future.
“This is a significant step in ensuring Northern Tasmania has the infrastructure needed to meet industry demand into the foreseeable future” Mayor Knowles said.
“We’re committed to working closely with key stakeholders, industry and the community to deliver a facility and supporting precinct that supports regional growth, new investment and sustainable, local jobs.”
“The project’s industry collaboration is comprised of a structured partnership at all levels of government, and key user groups across the freight and logistic supply chain.”
The proposed Launceston Airport TRANSlink Facility will play a key role in improving freight efficiency, supporting economic development, and creating sustainable employment opportunities across the region and the state.
For project updates, or to participate in future consultation, contact the project team at ntift@ntdc.org.au or visit www.ntdc.org.au
For more information, please contact Mayor Mary Knowles OAM on 0408 766 625.