Stadium precinct plan gets federal funding green light
Federal funding has officially been locked in for a major coastal site that includes an AFL stadium for the Tasmanian Devils.
The Australian government said on Thursday it had accepted the master plan and housing plan for Macquarie Point in Hobart, reinforcing its $240 million funding commitment.
A $1.13 billion 23,000-seat roofed stadium will be built on the site, a key condition for Tasmania’s entry into the AFL and AFLW in 2028.
The controversial stadium cleared a do-or-die hurdle in December when it was approved by the Tasmanian parliament.
Master plans for the region include housing, including affordable homes, as well as public plazas and accommodation areas.
The region will also maintain transport connectivity and port operations supporting Hobart’s shipping, logistics and Antarctic research activities.
“Macquarie Point will become a world-class, year-round destination for Tasmanians and provide a significant boost to the state’s tourism sector,” Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said.
“The area will be much more than a well-deserved home for the Devils – it will create new housing, improve transport links adjacent to the Hobart CBD and improve the docks.”
The plans meet the final non-financial milestones under the funding agreement and discussions are ongoing on financial delivery milestones.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged federal funding during a visit to Macquarie Point, home to sewage works, in 2023.
As part of negotiations to pass the stadium through parliament, the Tasmanian government said it would cap its contribution at $875 million.
Despite initial hopes that it would be ready in 2029, it has recently been revealed that the stadium will not be ready to host fixtures until 2031.
Former Collingwood chairman Eddie McGuire says there have been discussions about delaying the Devils’ entry into the AFL as the club faces the prospect of playing three seasons at existing grounds before moving to Macquarie Point.
Devils boss Brendon Gale said the club continues to focus on 2028 and all preparations are being made with this date in mind.
The Devils made their debut in the second-tier VFL on Saturday and earned victory in front of a sold-out suburban crowd of 10,000.
