People looking to rent a car in Tasmania can expect high prices and few vehicles, as many rental agencies have sold off their fleet due to a drop in business because of the coronavirus pandemic, ABC.net.au reports.

According to the Tourism Industry Council Tasmania, the state has about 50% fewer cars than prior to pandemic. 

As stay-at-home restrictions begin to ease and mass vaccination plans are announced, inbound tourism is beginning to pick up. However, as a place with limited access to public transport, hiring a car is vital to getting around from town to town. 

To help car rental companies restock their fleets, the tourism council is asking the government to lower costs and taxes for car hire agencies.