The Tasmanian Planning Commission has dealt a significant setback to the proposed $945 million AFL stadium at Macquarie Point in Hobart, concluding that the project would cause 'unacceptable adverse impacts' on the city. The report, released this week, argues that the 23,000-seat venue is 'too big for the site' and would be a 'monolithic' blot on Hobart's landscape and cultural heritage.
The stadium is a key condition for Tasmania's entry into the AFL from 2028, with the Tasmanian Devils scheduled to play their first game in the new arena in 2029. However, the commission found that the social, environmental and financial costs outweigh the benefits. It warned of 'irrevocable and unacceptable adverse impacts' on the surrounding communities, businesses and heritage-listed buildings, including the Hobart cenotaph, Australia's oldest war memorial.
The report also highlighted concerns from the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, located just 170 metres from the site, about noise and vibration disrupting performances. The Tasmanian RSL objected to the 54-metre-high dome blocking sightlines of the cenotaph. The commission sided with these groups, stating that the stadium would not be 'iconic' as claimed by the AFL.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff acknowledged on Wednesday that the project's cost had blown out by almost 20% to $1.13 billion. The commission estimated the project would saddle Tasmania with a $1 billion debt, rising to $1.8 billion over a decade, far exceeding the state government's pledged $375 million contribution. Rockliff defended the project, saying the report 'massively underestimated' its social and economic benefits, and urged MPs to support it.
State Labor leader Josh Willie said his party maintained support for the stadium but acknowledged 'significant challenges' raised by the commission, including transport, noise, access, financing and engineering issues. The Greens' sports spokesperson Vica Bayley criticised the project after the commission's damning findings. With both major parties supporting the stadium, its path through the lower house is assured, but major opposition is expected in the independent-dominated upper house.
