Premier Jeremy Rockliff more determined that ever to see Macquarie Point Stadium gets built

The Tasmanian Premier has revealed the moment which only strengthened his bid to see the state fulfil its AFL licence as the league responded to reports the other 18 presidents would vote on the Devils again.

The Devils first jumper. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The state government will work through “any challenge” to get Macquarie Point Stadium built in time for the Devils to play there in 2029 as the AFL confirms the future of the Tasmanian team was not under threat from a revolt by its club presidents.

The AFL rejected reports that presidents of its 18 interstate clubs had “demanded” the right to again vote on Tasmania’s licence if “the goal posts for the team’s entry shift”, namely failure to deliver a 23,000-seat roofed stadium at Macquarie Point.

Macquarie Point Multipurpose stadium concept image. Picture: Mac Point Development Corporation

An AFL spokesman said nothing had changed in the “no stadium, no team” agreement and the next milestone Tasmania must tick comes when the Project of State Significance process is completed in September.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff was asked about the alleged “presidents vote” in Parliament on Thursday.

He said: “I met with AFL representatives last week. It was a very cordial discussion as it always is.

“We will work through any challenges that are before us, and there will be challenges. I have no doubt about that.

“If we can get this team up and running and the stadium built, it will be the most significant economic opportunity seen in Tasmania in decades.

“That is why I am committed to it. I will not resile from it.”

Mr Rockliff’s resolved was strengthened after the 2025 Tasmanian Football Hall of Fame presentations at MyState Bank Arena last weekend.

“When I hear of inspirational speeches that were made at the Hall of Fame last Friday night, from [Devils CEO] Brendon Gale, [Tasmanian football legends] Trevor Leo, Ian Stewart and others, it really gels the reason why it is so important to have our own AFL and AFLW teams and bring that aspiration to young Tasmanian boys and girls.

“That is why I am committed to the team. That is why, along with a deal, it requires a stadium.

“It took strong negotiations, but also a deal that secured the 19th licence.”

Originally published as Premier Jeremy Rockliff more determined that ever to see Macquarie Point Stadium gets built