The future of the Tasmanian Devils AFL team is again precarious, primarily due to state political turmoil. Plans for a new Hobart stadium, crucial for the team’s scheduled entry into the league in 2028, are jeopardised by a no-confidence motion put forth by state opposition leader Dean Winter against Premier Jeremy Rockliff. This motion could lead to the premier’s removal and potentially trigger an early state election.
Recent assessments estimated the stadium’s cost at nearly $1 billion, up from an earlier $750 million forecast, compounded by ongoing delays—particularly concerning the inclusion of a fixed, transparent roof and its ramifications for other tenants like Cricket Australia. Despite some public backing from the opposition, uncertainty looms over the stadium’s future, prompting local political commentator Brent Costelloe to express concern about the implications of these developments for the project.
Costelloe noted that the absence of Rockliff, an active supporter of the stadium, might necessitate a new premier to garner trust from other parliamentarians, thus exacerbating an already convoluted situation. While he remains optimistic about the stadium’s eventual success, he acknowledges increased doubts, asserting that any electoral upheaval could prolong delays and complicate the project further.
The Tasmanian Devils released a statement highlighting the concerns surrounding the political landscape and its potential impact on the club’s future, urging political leaders to consider how their decisions influence both jobs and investment in Tasmania. They affirmed their commitment to establishing a team that serves all Tasmanians while steering clear of political affiliations.
The AFL has reiterated its stance regarding the Tasmanian team, making it clear that the establishment of a 23,000-seat roofed stadium at Macquarie Point is a fundamental condition for the club’s formation. Without the stadium, the aspiration to establish the Tasmanian Devils as the league’s 19th team is jeopardised.