Tasmanian Government Seeks To Fast-Track Hobart Stadium Approval

The Tasmanian Government is looking to fast-track planning for its proposed AFL stadium at Hobart’s Macquarie Point, introducing new legislation aimed at bypassing the current approval process.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced that his government would move to implement “enabling legislation” to ensure the stadium project proceeds without further delay. The proposed venue remains a key requirement for Tasmania to secure its own AFL team.

The decision follows concerns raised last month by the Tasmanian Planning Commission, which warned that the financial implications of the development could impact the state's credit rating. In response, Premier Rockliff argued that the existing Project of State Significance pathway had created uncertainty around the project.

“We simply cannot afford to let this project stall,” Rockliff said.

“Delays risk the future of the Macquarie Point precinct and the Tasmania Devils AFL club. We need to act now to provide certainty.”

Business Minister Eric Abetz echoed those sentiments, expressing unease with the Planning Commission's draft Integrated Assessment Report, particularly its reliance on analysis from economist Dr Nicholas Gruen.

Abetz stated the government had "lost confidence" in the process, alleging that Gruen’s involvement raised concerns about impartiality.

“We believe there is a perception of bias that compromises the integrity of the assessment,” he said.

Dr Gruen, in a response to the ABC, rejected any suggestion of bias, saying he held no strong opinion on the stadium itself.

“My hope is that Tasmania reaches a decision where everyone feels their voice was heard, and even those who disagree feel the outcome was fair. Right now, we’re a long way from that,” he said.

Public consultation on the proposed legislation is expected to begin in May, with Premier Rockliff hopeful that construction on the stadium could commence before the end of the year.