Tasmania is in the spotlight as it faces a pivotal moment with the proposed $1 billion deal to secure a place in the AFL, a plan that many residents vehemently oppose. A recent YouGov poll indicates widespread discontent across political affiliations, revealing that a significant majority of Tasmanians are unhappy with the AFL’s stringent conditions for the state’s entry, particularly the financial burden associated with the construction of a new stadium.
With a state election upcoming on July 19, the political climate is charged, especially following Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s recent no-confidence vote, which could jeopardise the deal’s future. Rockliff has been a strong advocate for the AFL agreement but faces increasing pressure from constituents to renegotiate the terms with the AFL to better serve Tasmanian interests.
According to the poll conducted for The Australia Institute, 69% of participants believe the AFL is treating Tasmania unfairly regarding its entry conditions, with only 21% expressing disagreement. Notably, dissatisfaction transcends party lines, with 72% of Labor supporters and 60% of Liberal supporters sharing similar sentiments, highlighting a collective desire for a reassessment of the deal.
Public demand is clear: 69% of respondents are in favour of revisiting negotiations with the AFL to avoid the costly stadium construction. This sentiment is echoed across varying demographics, with significant agreement from both genders and political affiliations.
Leanne Minshull, strategy director at The Australia Institute, criticises the deal as unsatisfactory and calls for the newly elected government to advocate for Tasmanian needs. She argues that the AFL’s imposition of such a one-sided agreement is unacceptable, labelling it as an unfair burden on Tasmanian taxpayers.
Minshull points out that while Tasmanians deserve representation in the AFL, they should not have to front the costs of a state-of-the-art stadium that they do not desire. Given the state’s long-standing contributions to Australian football, the current treatment from the AFL is seen as deeply disappointing and indicative of disregard for grassroots support.
As Tasmania approaches this critical election, the outcome hinges on whether the leaders can align with public sentiment and stand firm against what is perceived as an unduly burdensome agreement with the AFL. The future of the Tasmania Devils, the proposed team, remains uncertain as residents await a governance approach that prioritises their interests and critiques the favour afforded to the AFL.