The Macquarie Point Development Corporation has officially lodged a development application for a state-of-the-art multi-purpose stadium in Hobart, bringing the estimated construction costs to $775 million—an increase of $60 million from previous estimates. This 23,000-seat, roofed facility is crucial for the proposed Tasmania Devils’ entry into the AFL.
As part of the state government’s Project of State Significance process, the application was submitted to the Tasmanian Planning Commission, which will review a comprehensive 269-page document along with around 4,000 pages of supporting materials. The process may take up to 12 months, during which an independent panel will assess the project’s environmental, economic, social, and cultural impacts.
Despite the rising costs, the Tasmanian government remains committed to capping its contribution at $375 million. Federal support includes $240 million for the Macquarie Point precinct, and the AFL has pledged an additional $15 million for the stadium. Minister for Sport and Events, Nic Street, expressed confidence that private sector investment will cover any funding shortfalls, citing informal interest from potential investors.
CEO Anne Beach noted that the updated cost estimate includes contingencies to allow for potential savings during the delivery phase. She assured the public that the figure reflects a meticulously costed design rather than arbitrary budgeting.
The stadium is projected to host a minimum of 36 to 38 events annually, with an optimistic estimate of up to 51 events. It will serve various sports, including cricket, and feature a 1,500-person function room. Notably, the design will include the largest timber-supported roof of any stadium worldwide, boasting a striking 51-meter-high translucent structure, which will cost $190 million.
In a bid to promote sustainable transport, the stadium will not include a public car park; instead, spectators will be encouraged to use public transport, including buses, ferries, and bicycles. Beach emphasized the intention to create a “rockstar experience on a bus,” prioritizing efficient and safe management of large crowds.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff hailed the application as a significant milestone for the Macquarie Point redevelopment, which aims to transform the area into a vibrant hub for sports, arts, and events. However, the project has sparked debate within the community, with concerns over the use of public funds amidst pressing health and housing issues in Tasmania.
Tasmanian Labor has announced its support for the stadium, likely ensuring its approval in parliament, though opposition remains strong. Critics, including the Our Place group, argue that the increasing costs signal a “growing nightmare of debt,” cautioning against potential tax increases to cover funding gaps.
Beach has acknowledged community concerns, stating that the design team has made efforts to mitigate impacts on the surrounding environment, including sightlines from the nearby Hobart Cenotaph. The stadium’s design incorporates considerations for noise and light management, aiming for harmony with local residents and businesses.
As the planning phase unfolds, all eyes will be on the Tasmanian Planning Commission’s deliberations and the ongoing discussions surrounding public funding and community sentiment regarding this ambitious project.
