Budget deficit blows out by $500m
The state budget deficit blew out by half a billion dollars in 2024/25, reaching $1.3bn — the second-worst result on record, new Treasury figures show.
Aerial resources “crucial” as over 29,000 hectares burnt
TFS are marching on with their battle against blazes on the state’s West Coast, with aerial resources proving crucial to prevent the spread of flames that have already covered 29,000 hectares.
Eslake says budget repair response ‘lacks substance’
The state government has rejected or ignored the bulk of the recommendations of an independent report it commissioned into the state’s finances, a response its author has described as “disappointing”.
Hawthorn’s $9m Tasmanian future revealed
With the Tasmania Devils just three years away from joining the AFL, Hawthorn has made a decision on its immediate future in the state. Here’s what we know.
Planning changes branded ’undemocratic’
The government’s plan to ban third-party appeals against development approvals are “some of the most anti-democratic laws the state has ever seen”, Planning Matters Alliance Tasmania says.
Seven people charged during Party in the Paddock festival
Police were out in force for the Party in the Paddock festival, putting in a finale effort through a road safety operation. The results.
Top Australian trainer tastes Hobart Cup success
One of Australia’s best horse racing trainers created another piece of history in the Hobart Cup on Sunday. Get the lowdown from the huge day of racing.
Live stream: How to watch the Tasmanian Netball League weekly
A bigger and better Tasmanian Netball League is set to kick off season 2025 with a massive opening round. See how to watch weekly games LIVE.
How one number is uniting a family and footy club after horror incident
One of the most tragic events in Australian sporting history will finally have a bright moment thanks to a remarkable cross-generational tale of love and respect at a Tasmanian footy club.
News Shorts
Jacob Furphy is the next big thing out of Tasmania 😤
Aussie’s warning over common injury
Sam Kerr admits she was hostile towards UK police officer
Trump’s plan to ‘take over’ Gaza Strip and make it ‘Riviera of the Middle East’
‘Don’t recall’: Sam Kerr didn’t remember alleged racist comments
Sweden police front media after country’s worst shooting
‘Oh no’: Shocked travelers as plane pulls out of landing
Kmart’s $5 chicken shredder goes viral
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From pool guard to prison guard, 19-year stalwart celebrates award
“Every person is one mistake away from jail”: A Tasmanian Prison service stalwart has been recognised for her 19-year commitment to the service. Her biggest lessons from a life working on the inside:
Tassie whiskeys win on the world stage
Tasmanian whiskeys are proving their worth on the world stage after taking home more than half of the awards available for Australian distillers at the recent whiskey “Olympics”.
Pint-sized wine bar draws in a Hobart crowd
Tasmanians won’t line up for many things. But they will for Sonny, the pint-sized Hobart wine bar with the super-sized fan club ranked in Australia’s top 100 food experiences.
What does the future hold for sprawling Hatcher’s Manor?
A tourist attraction, accommodation venture, wedding venue, function destination … The options feel endless here in historic Richmond.
Residents campaign against affordable housing proposed for local park
A residents’ group has voiced its dismay at a suggestion that local parkland could be rezoned for affordable housing, prompting a fiery response from the mayor.
Senator’s push to get new blood into exclusive gentlemen’s club
The Tasmanian Club is one of the oldest gentlemen’s clubs in Australia and now a Liberal Senator is pushing for new blood in its membership. Read who wants to join.
Weak, juvenile Democrats overwhelmed by Trump
In the first three weeks of Donald Trump’s second term, Democrats seem lost on how to oppose him. Tom Minear assesses their tactics and argues for a simple alternative.
Shock that showed me I’ve been wrong about men
One minute you’re on high alert for the red flags and then this happens, writes Robyn Ingerson.
GALLERY: All the frocks and thrills from the 2025 Hobart Cup
Marquees were overflowing at the Elwick Racecourse early Sunday ahead of the Hobart Cup race. Check out the frocks and fillies that made the day.
‘Abominable’: Tasman mayor lashes internet and phone coverage
In the summer months the Tasman Peninsula swells with tourists, Read why the addition of cruise ship visitors is causing serious problems for businesses and locals.
Museums, cafes, and a hotel: Bold vision for Treasury complex
Hobart’s iconic Treasury buildings could be transformed into a cultural heritage precinct boasting museums, cafes, bars, and visitor accommodation under a proposal to revitalise the ageing site.
Best of the rest – Jackies proud of “testing” season
Coach Scott Roth to “smoke a lot of cigars” to farewell the JackJumpers’ failed NBL title defence and then decide who he wants back for another shot at the crown. What he said:
Is Tassie the home of Australia’s best minibar?
Rooms at Launceston’s luxury Stillwater Seven hotel feature a personal pantry stocked with guests’ favourite drinks and snacks – a service that has ranked in Australia’s top 100 food experiences
Bushland privacy and big views make admired home sing
Need a ton of room? A luxe new home? Privacy and beautiful views? This popular property could be the one.
Eat Pray Love this place: Why famous author is mad for Tassie
Her books have sold millions of copies around the world but Eat Pray Love author Elizabeth Gilbert says one place in particular has cast a spell on her – Tasmania.
21-year-old Margate rider dies after police tried to intercept him
Police professional standards will investigate the circumstances leading to the death of a male motorcyclist. Find out what happened.
Driver allegedly assaulted on Claremont bus
The latest alleged assault on a bus driver has once again triggered calls from the union to up protection. The details >>
Sentencing date set for man responsible for death of baby
A man who shook a baby to death in what the Crown described as ‘a gravely inappropriate and overwhelmingly disproportionate response to the situation’ will soon learn his fate.
‘Greedy’: Aussies fuming over new beer slug
Australia’s independent consumer watchdog has made a “pre-emptive strike” amid the escalating stoush over the nation’s beer tax which brewers say is an “unfair” burden on the sector.
Urgent warning as renters, buyers scammed
Real estate scams are leaving homebuyers without a deposit and renters without a home, but there are ways to keep your money safe. Find out how to spot the red flags.
Shock regions for 2025 home price growth
Home prices are falling across the country, but these promising regions are bucking the trend with strong growth
Are financial advisers worth the money?
Financial advisers are a steady hand when markets wobble. But do they deliver on the returns front? New data shows that it depends on a few key things.
Meet those in the running to be named Australia’s best farmer
Eighteen farmers from across Australia have been short-listed in the nation’s premier Farmer of the Year awards, honouring agricultural excellence. Discover who they are.
Pumping crowds lovin’ Party in the Paddock
Tunes and good vibes continued to flow from Party in the Paddock, which is rocking Carrick with a four-day music festival. Pics of the early action >>
Why Keys believes his horse can win the Hobart Cup
Bookmakers may have written him off, but his trainer John Key has faith Travelling Gigolo has what it takes to win the Hobart Cup. Here’s why.
LIST: Who owes money in unpaid fines
Thousands of Tasmanians began the new year in debt, with a government list revealing the names of those who owe money in unpaid fines. 4916 NAMES >>
How to use the Mercury app
Downloaded our app + signed up to breaking news alerts? Here’s everything you need to know.
GALLERY: Glitz and glam of Hobart Cup
Fashion and racing go hand in hand. See the hottest looks off the field with 100+ faces of the Hobart Cup.
Push for Albo to protect Aussies from Trump tariffs
Anthony Albanese is under pressure to protect Australia from a 25 per cent tax on all steel and aluminium imports being proposed by US President Donald Trump. See what it means.
‘Tragedy’: DV crisis remains high for group of Aussie women
Despite the number of Australian women killed by an intimate partner declining last year, the crisis remains acute for one group.
Trump trolls Taylor after Super Bowl ‘boos’
Donald Trump has had a crack at Taylor Swift after the superstar was booed at the Super Bowl.
New pics of doomed DC plane’s wreckage released
All “major pieces” from the deadly midair crash between an American Airlines plane and a Black Hawk helicopter have been recovered as an investigation into the tragedy continues.
Blue steel: Australia gets a ticket to Trump’s trade war
The promise of sweeping steep steel tariffs is set to deliver the first big test for Anthony Albanese’s relationship with the White House in the Trump 2.0 era.
Boyer Mill sold for $27m to multi-millionaire developer
The future for one of Tasmania’s biggest employers has been under a cloud. Now it has a new buyer who is looking to the future.
Shock closure of retro cinema but owner vows ‘this isn’t goodbye’
A popular boutique cinema specialising in cult movies has made the “emotional” decision to close its doors – but the devastated proprietor says he is on the hunt for a new home for the business.
Tasmania sale and auction results, week ending February 9
See the latest auction and sales results in Tasmania for last week.
Kardashian’s ‘endless’ $22m TV home for sale
Kris Jenner has put her iconic ‘Keeping Up With the Kardashians’ mansion that regularly featured in the hit TV show reluctantly up for sale.
Rare look inside Meghan’s $20m LA castle
Meghan Markle has offered a rare look into the massive Californian mansion she shares with husband Prince Harry.
Tasmania sale and auction results, week ending February 8
Tasmania recorded seven property sales over a million dollars last week, the latest auction and sales results reveal.
Isla Fisher’s heartbreaking post-divorce confession
Aussie star Isla Fisher has made a shattering admission about her split from Sacha Baron Cohen, as she rebuilds a “new, healthy version” of her life.
A-lister’s surprise Super Bowl cameo; Taylor looks stressed
One of Hollywood’s biggest names has appeared in the Super Bowl halftime show, amid a huge Travis Kelce rumour after he was spotted crying. See the video.
‘Truly ape-s**t’: Marvel star’s surprise confession
Anthony Mackie opens up on taking over the part of Captain America from Chris Evans and seeing his “dream” come to fruition.
Timely take on Munich Olympics terrorist crisis
The edge-of-your-seat factual drama September 5 takes viewers behind the scenes in one of the Olympic Games’ darkest hours with a message that still resonates today.
Footy ground’s turnaround from ‘boggy quagmire’ to award winner
A Tasmanian football ground which was one unfit for play has been recognised for its stunning redevelopment with an award. Catch up on the latest in Sport Shorts.
JackJumpers superstar in tears over NBL future
Tassie champ Hunt in rare air after 243km race triumph
37 unreal images capture grit, flair at Red Bull Hardline
JackJumpers to ‘go out with a bang’
‘We need to make money’: Gale’s push for new Devils home
Tasmania Devils boss Brendon Gale has declared a new stadium can play a key role in altering the club’s “destiny” and its “competitive strength” upon entry into the AFL. His say on the hot topic here.
Inside Gale’s plans to lead Tassie Devils pack
On his first day in the job, homecoming AFL hero Brendon Gale admitted he was under no illusion about the task confronting him as the inaugural chief executive of the Tasmania Devils.
How Owen, Webster inspire Tassie’s next big thing
Tasmania all-rounders Beau Webster and Mitch Owen have exploded onto the world stage, and youngster Aidan O’Connor is taking inspiration from them after taking another big step on Wednesday.
Sport shorts: Big-name racing stars keen to claim Hobart Cup
Some big-name racing stars will look to claim Hobart Cup victory on Sunday, and basketball sensation Jacob Furphy has received another honour. Catch up on Tasmania’s sports news in Sport Shorts.
NTFA: Fitness, ferocity the focus for new Roos coach
Deloraine’s new coach Nick Milbourne plans on bringing an old school hard edge to the Roos, and two key pillars will be the main focus as they build for the future.
‘Get us competitive early’: Gale’s take on Devils’ list build
As the current 18 AFL clubs await an announcement surrounding draft concessions for the Tassie Devils, CEO Brendon Gale has revealed he has been given an insight into possible plans.
Matt Preston’s secret to the ultimate schnitzel
10 cheap, cheerful & delicious places to eat in Phuket
As a tourist hub, Phuket isn’t a destination traditionally synonymous with foodie wonders. But among the smorgasbord of resorts and major hotels that scatter this town and its surrounds, you’ll find a mingling of eateries, restaurants and street food stars worth your while.
Say ‘cheers!’ to the weekend with these 49 cocktails
Because Champagne alone isn’t going to cut it.
Pies boss hits back at doubters, defends dwindling recruiting team
Recruiting, draft picks, zone: How Tassie list build impacts your club
The Devils are hunting for a more comprehensive package to help them enter the AFL — and it’s set to drastically affect the rest of the competition. Here’s how it will likely take shape.
Rowell expected to sign on with Suns
AFL: Gold Coast Suns midfielding Matt Rowell says he’s likely to re-commit to the club but is not in any rush to finalise the deal.
Why ‘dragon teeth’ are appearing on roads
Man builds his own DIY Tesla Cybertruck
A homemade Tesla Cybertruck was spotted roaming the streets in Pakistan.
Why social trolls are wrong about this car
Haters on social media were quick to hone in on and attack one attribute of BMW’s new car. This why they are wrong.
Tassie wine-tasting experience ranked among Australia’s best
Could Bruny be Australia’s foodiest island?
It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists – and now Bruny Island has been recognised as one of Australia’s most delicious food experiences on the delicious. 100 ultimate foodie bucket list
Major overhaul to Bali bombing site for Aussies
The site of the 2002 Bali bombing site, which claimed 88 Australian lives, is set to become a place to promote “tolerance”.
Beaumont children: The story behind Adelaide’s greatest mystery
Convicted baby killer Keli Lane in closed hearing
Former elite water polo player Keli Lane is making another legal push for freedom.
Illicit tobacco gangland war sparks call to slash taxes
As the illicit tobacco war heats up across the country, Treasurer Jim Chalmers is under pressure to cut cigarette taxes. Vote in our poll and have your say.
Grief stricken parents launch petition for ATV reform
Wooley: No easy answer on the question of who to trust
DeepSeek may have copped some criticism, but China and Trump don’t have the monopoly on disinformation, says Charles Wooley
Planning appeals set to become stricter under crackdown
The state government will ban third-party appeals against council planning decisions, fulfilling a 2014 election promise. Here’s why.
100 photos: Colourful Pride Parade roars through Hobart’s CBD
Fun, sweat and Forrest Gump: Cadbury Marathon gallery
The Cadbury Marathon was as popular as ever with a record turnout tackling the race, including an appearance from a popular movie character. CHECK OUT ALL THE PICS >>
Tasman Bridge Disaster in pictures
It was a calamity which shook the nation and changed Hobart forever. See the amazing images of the Tasman Bridge disaster
‘Unspoken’ Aussie rule tourists need to know
‘Aussie Maldives’ 3h from Sydney
This babe of a bay has blinding white sand, shallow emerald waters and friendly rays you can swim with. No wonder tourists are calling it the Maldives of Australia.
Controversial change to famous Bali beach
A contentious change to a world-famous Bali beach has Aussie tourists up in arms. But some say it’s all our own fault so we have no right to complain…
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