The Tasmanian Government announced plans to introduce enabling legislation aimed at advancing the controversial Macquarie Point stadium project in Hobart. This step, which is known as the “feasibility stage,” is crucial in ensuring Tasmania gets their very own Australian Football League (AFL) team. Reaching this target has been an elusive dream for the state. Legislation as currently written would moot the Project of State Significance process now underway, worrying stakeholders from the statehouse to the pavement.
The government’s decision follows a mixed response to the Tasmanian Planning Commission’s draft Integrated Assessment Report. The report described the stadium as “overbearing” and predicted its build would put “downward pressure” on Tasmania’s credit rating. As far as the Tasmanian Government is concerned, the current planning process is a failure. Now, they’re looking beyond those traditional metrics at what other forms of assessment can provide.
Legislative Process and Timeline
Consultation with the public on this new legislative framework begins in May. This provides outside stakeholders an opportunity to provide their input on the suggested changes. The government intends to have the legislation passed by the lower house by late June. Then, they will bring an upper house vote to the floor by early July. If all goes well, stadium construction could start by Christmas 2025.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff emphasized the importance of parliamentary involvement in this project, stating, “Every member of parliament will have their say on this project — just as they would have through POSS.” The government is counting on this collaborative and inclusive approach to help them through what will be a legislative quagmire. Labor MP Luke Edmunds raised concerns about the unusual nature of this legislative maneuvering, noting, “This is not a regular occurrence in Tasmanian parliament to do this, especially around something so big.”
Public Sentiment and Opposition
The Macquarie Point stadium is considered one of the “most scrutinised projects in the state’s history,” prompting significant public interest and debate. The Tasmanian Government now invites public comment on the draft report. Climate Change & Health National Adaptation Program The deadline for representations is May 8 – you can still contribute as these discussions continue.
Environmental advocacy organizations have been quick to criticize the Administration’s first crack at the Integrated Assessment Report, raising concerns about bias. Dr. Gruen, who contributed to the report, remarked on the polarized environment surrounding the project: “The frame against which all reporting takes place is whether you’re for or against the stadium.” He went on to suggest that as a result of his own consultations with stadium opponents, some had begun to doubt his impartiality.
In light of these concerns, Mr. Abetz from the government stated, “It is the government’s view that Dr Gruen’s report has been tainted by an apprehension of bias, undermining the government’s confidence in the Integrated Assessment Report.” This sentiment underscored the tricky balance between managing the public’s expectations and opinion and making sure evaluation efforts move forward with transparency.
Future Prospects and Development
As discussions continue regarding the stadium’s future, both supporters and detractors are keenly watching the government’s next steps. While supporters argue that having an AFL team will boost local economy and community pride, opponents caution against potential drawbacks, including financial risks associated with funding such a large-scale project.
The Tasmanian Government is currently pursuing alternative pathways to assess the project, in a bid to juggle its desire to build the tunnel with growing public concern. Public consultation is planned for May. Stakeholders will soon have a chance to impact this historic outcome, with a timeline for legislative action already set in place.
“When you want to work with two houses of parliament, across multiple members around the state, I think getting on the front foot and offering to brief those people would be a good start.” – Labor MP Luke Edmunds
