The Tasmanian Government will host a second industry roundtable in August to progress a shared long-term vision for the West Coast Wilderness Railway.
The roundtable was scheduled for August to capture the investment made through the 2026-27 State Budget which provided a $28.3 million boost for the railway over the next four years for capital works, safety upgrades, and securing the long-term future of the heritage tourism experience. This brings the state government’s total investment in the railway to $36.8 million.
The Wilderness Railway is a world-renowned 35-kilometre heritage steam railway operating through the rainforest of Tasmania’s West Coast. The roundtable will bring together key industry, tourism, and business leaders alongside local, state and federal representation to focus on practical next steps to secure the railway’s future and maximise its value to the region.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Kerry Vincent, said the roundtable was an important next step following the government’s recent investment in the railway.
“The West Coast Wilderness Railway is not just a tourism icon – it is a vital part of the West Coast’s identity and economic future,” Vincent said.
“The 2026-27 budget delivered a total investment of $36.8 million to set the railway up for a long-term future. This roundtable is about ensuring we maximise the impact of that investment – working closely with industry to identify priorities, strengthen partnerships and set out a clear pathway forward.”
The roundtable will also continue work on an economic assessment of the value of the railway to the West Coast region, focusing on its role in attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and regional jobs.
Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Jane Howlett, said the West Coast Wilderness Railway was one of Tasmania’s most unique and compelling visitor experiences.
“The upcoming roundtable will help ensure the railway continues to grow as a high‑quality, world‑class experience, supported by the government’s recent budget investment,” Howlett said.
More than 217,000 interstate and international visitors travelled to the West Coast in 2025, with one in four experiencing the railway as part of their trip.
The Tasmanian Government will continue to work closely with stakeholders as it progresses planning and investment for the West Coast Wilderness Railway.
