Tourism Tasmania give $100K to Sharp Airlines

The State Government is backing a $100,000 joint marketing and social media campaign with Sharp Airlines and Tourism Tasmania to promote King and Flinders Island to increase passenger numbers and help boost the local tourism economies.

The Government said its support for Sharp would continue until the end of April next year.

The Government has not detailed the nature of this extended support, and no specific financial commitment beyond the marketing campaign has been identified.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said maintaining connections for island communities remained a priority.

“The Tasmanian Government has worked with Sharp Airlines to maintain essential air services to support the King Island community and the economy,” he said.

He confirmed that the current route structure will continue.

“The support includes services between King Island and Tasmania, Flinders Island and Tasmania as well as five return services per week between Essendon and King Island.

“We are delivering for Tasmania by securing air services to and from our islands and we will continue to work with Sharp Airlines.”

Sharp Airlines remains the key provider of passenger travel, medical access flights and freight services for King Island.

In recent months, the airline has reduced its scheduled passenger flights and seat availability, contributing to ongoing pressure on residents, visitors and businesses who rely on regular, predictable services.

Tourism, Hospitality and Events Minister Jane Howlett said the Government’s focus includes encouraging passengers to use the existing services.

“Tourism Tasmania will partner with Sharp Airlines on a campaign to grow demand over the summer and autumn seasons,” Ms Howlett said.

She also noted improvements in booking and travel options.

“We also welcome the recent announcement of the Qantas interline agreement with Sharp Airlines, which is expected to further strengthen demand.

“We are working together to move our state forward to help King Island’s residents deal with the challenges they face.”

Sharp Airlines CEO Alistair Dorward said the airline welcomed the opportunity to work closely with the state’s marketing bodies.

“Our schedule to King Island from Essendon and Launceston is locked in for the high season until end of April, 2026,” he said.

The Government said it will continue working with the King Island Tourism Association, businesses and residents to address regional aviation challenges.