⚡ Tasmania Greenlights Marinus Link in Bold – and Risky – Political Move

Aug 1

3 min read

In a political shockwave, the Tasmania Liberal Government has signed off on the $5 billion Marinus Link undersea cable, defying caretaker conventions — and potentially sabotaging its own political future in the process.

The deal finalizes Tasmania’s 17.7% share in the massive energy project, while Victoria and the Federal Government (both Labor-led) confirmed their majority stakes, at 33.3% and 49%, respectively. This decision came just days after promises of transparency — and zero public business case disclosure.

Tasmania Greenlights Marinus Link in Bold – and Risky – Political Move

🚨 Why the Rush? Caretaker Government Pushes Through FID

The decision was made while Tasmania's government is still in caretaker mode following a snap election and a vote of no confidence. According to critics, this move violates the spirit — if not the letter — of caretaker conventions.

Independent MP Craig Garland, who previously held the balance of power, has now withdrawn support, calling the government’s last-minute briefings “absolutely disgraceful.”

Labor’s Dean Winter, while supporting the project in principle, blasted the timing and secrecy, instead proposing to offload Tasmania’s financial burden onto the mainland, saving the state $200 million instantly.

🔌 What is the Marinus Link?

The Marinus Link is a proposed 750 MW undersea transmission cable that will connect Tasmania to Victoria’s Latrobe Valley, enabling the flow of renewable power between states. It’s seen as critical to Australia’s transition away from coal — but only if the benefits outweigh the costs.

Environmental approval is still pending, and construction won’t begin until 2026. Yet, by locking in the Final Investment Decision (FID) now, the government secured vital contracts with Prysmian and Hitachi set to expire next month.

💸 Why Is It So Controversial?

Critics argue the project:

Will increase power prices for Tasmanians
Lacks a transparent economic case
Encourages widespread wind farm development with major environmental and cultural impacts

The Bob Brown Foundation called it a "$5 billion gift to overseas wind farm developers," while energy experts like Bruce Mountain have long said the numbers just don’t add up.

📜 Was It Even Legal?

Technically, yes. According to constitutional expert Professor Anne Twomey, caretaker conventions are not legally binding. They serve as guidelines — not hard rules. Ministers must apply “sound judgment,” and consultation with the opposition is recommended but not mandatory.

Still, the lack of full disclosure, the timing, and the political maneuvering have left many Tasmanians deeply frustrated.

🌱 What Happens Now?

Despite the uproar, Stage 1 is moving forward, pending federal environmental and regulatory approvals. Marinus Link’s leadership is celebrating, calling the decision a “historic achievement” and a milestone for the National Electricity Market.

Construction is expected in 2026, and engagement with landholders and communities is ongoing — though opposition on the ground remains fierce.

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