Racing
League
Rugby
Cricket
Golf
Motorsport
Combat Sports
Football
Netball
Basketball
Other Sports
Sport Nation
Defiant Devils respond to stadium rejection
SEN • September 19th, 2025 12:56 pm
Days after the Tasmanian Planning Commission advised against building a stadium at Hobart’s Macquarie Point, the Devils have responded.
The TPC rejected the application to build citing size as one issue, a lack of benefits and the fact it threatens to plunge the state $1.8bn into debt.
“The Panel has concluded that the benefits are outweighed by the disbenefits,” a report released on Tuesday said.
“Proceeding with the Project will give rise to irrevocable and unacceptable adverse impacts on Hobart’s spatial and landscape character, urban form and historic cultural heritage,” it says.
“In addition, the Project represents a significant net cost and will diminish the economic welfare of Tasmanians as a whole, and it offers almost no scope for the site to become a vibrant active place that is attractive to visit outside of major event mode.
“In very simple terms, the stadium is too big for the site and the benefits it will bring are significantly outweighed by the disbenefits it creates.”
Building the 23,000 seat stadium is a condition of entry into the AFL and AFLW, without it a license will not be granted.
The AFL is yet to comment on the TPC report, but the Devils are adamant the decision is incorrect and has moved to defend the "once in a lifetime opportunity" their club presents the state.
"Tasmania Football club acknowledges the released of the TPC report this week," a club statement said.
"Our club deeply believes in the economic, social and cultural benefits of our club and the critical infrastructure to support it.
"This is a once in a generation opportunity to celebrate our passion, pride and potential, and inspire generations.
"We could not be more determined and focused on realising the opportunity that is at our fingertips. Time is now of the essence for us to be ready for the 'first bounce'.
"The club remains committed to working alongside and together with the Parliament and broader Tasmanian community to see this generational project come to life."
