Now that the deal has been approved, the Tasmanian government will present its case to the federal government in an attempt to obtain AUS$250 million (US$167.9 million) in funding for a stadium located in Hobart. The state government has pledged to pay for half of the new venue’s expenses, which might total AUS$750 million (US$503.96 million). The AFL and private equity would then provide the remaining funds.
The state government of Tasmania asserts that the stadium would generate AUS$85 million (US$57.2 million) in revenue for the community and 950 full-time equivalent employment. Additionally, they have stated that having an AFL and AFL Women’s (AFLW) franchise would increase revenue by an additional AUS$120 million (US$80.7 million) annually.
The plan would be taken into consideration once the business case is submitted, according to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, even though the government has given infrastructure for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics a higher priority.
The Labour state opposition is opposed to any new facility being built, hence the stadium ideas have not gained full approval in Tasmania.
The AFL has emphasized that stadium approval is a requirement for an expansion franchise license. Following the deal, Gillon McLachlan, the CEO of the AFL, stated: “We need a stadium.” A stadium is necessary for the largest sport in the nation and among the major sports worldwide.
When Tasmania has concluded its application for a license—which requires the backing of at least 12 clubs in order for its bid to be successful—the current 18 clubs will cast a final vote. Clubs received the state’s proposal’s financial details recently, and McLachlan reported that talks have been “productive.”
In fact, one club president stated to the Mercury that all presidents are “satisfied” that Tasmania can acquire the necessary financing and are in favor of the bid, provided the new stadium is constructed. According to the unidentified CEO, “nobody would be against having a new stadium for a new team.”
Hawthorn has signed a new one-year contract to carry on with their home games in Tasmania. As they have done every season since 2001, they will have four regular season games there the following year.
Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves stated, “We are thrilled to be prolonging our stay in Tasmania, while at the same time also continuing our support for their pursuit of their own AFL team.”
“To extend our partnership for another season is a testament to the incredibly strong relationship Hawthorn has with the Tasmanian government.”
