Hobart AFL Stadium: Will The MLC Vote Sink The Devils' Hopes?

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Post on Apr 08, 2025

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Hobart AFL Stadium: Will the MLC Vote Sink the Devils' Hopes?

The Tasmanian AFL team's dream of a dedicated Hobart stadium hangs precariously in the balance following a crucial vote in the state's Legislative Council. The proposed $750 million stadium, a cornerstone of the state's bid for a permanent AFL team, faces an uncertain future after a narrow defeat in the upper house. This setback throws the timeline – and indeed the viability – of the Tasmanian Devils' entry into the AFL competition into serious question.

The MLC Vote: A Narrow Defeat with Far-Reaching Consequences

The vote, which saw the proposed legislation narrowly fail to secure the necessary support, has sent shockwaves through the Tasmanian sporting community and beyond. While the Premier, Jeremy Rockliff, remains committed to securing the stadium, the path forward is now significantly more challenging. The opposition's concerns, centered largely on the stadium's cost and the lack of transparency surrounding the funding model, have proven to be a major stumbling block.

What Happens Now? The Future of the Hobart AFL Stadium

The immediate aftermath of the vote leaves several key questions unanswered:

• Will the government revisit the proposal? Premier Rockliff has indicated a willingness to work with the opposition to find a compromise, potentially involving adjustments to the stadium's design or a revised funding plan. This might include exploring alternative funding sources or scaling back the project's scope. However, time is of the essence, as the AFL is expecting a decision soon.

• What are the implications for the Tasmanian Devils? The lack of a dedicated stadium is a significant blow to Tasmania's bid for an AFL team. The AFL has repeatedly stressed the importance of a suitable venue as a precondition for granting a license. Delaying or altering the stadium plan could significantly delay – or even derail – the Devils' entry into the competition.

• What role will the federal government play? Federal funding was a crucial component of the original proposal. Will the federal government maintain its commitment in light of the MLC vote? The federal government's response will be critical in determining the next steps.

Public Reaction and the Road Ahead

The public reaction to the MLC vote has been mixed. While many Tasmanians remain enthusiastic about the prospect of an AFL team and a new stadium, others have expressed concerns about the project's cost and potential impact on the state's finances. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of the project and the hopes of the Tasmanian Devils. The government faces a difficult task in navigating the political landscape and securing the necessary support to move forward. Any revised proposal will need to address the concerns raised by the opposition and reassure the public that the stadium is a viable and worthwhile investment.

Keywords: Hobart AFL Stadium, Tasmanian Devils, AFL Tasmania, MLC vote, Jeremy Rockliff, AFL expansion, Tasmanian stadium, stadium funding, Australian Football League, sporting infrastructure, political stalemate, future of Tasmanian AFL.