Lower house indicate strong support for new stadium at Macquarie Point

The Lower House — that is key for the state government to move ahead with the proposed Mac Point Stadium — has been tested with a symbolic vote. HOW IT WENT >>

New renders of the proposed Macquarie Point stadium, home of the Tasmanian Devils. Provided May 26, 2025.

Tasmania’s lower house of parliament has expressed its overwhelming support for a new stadium at Macquarie Point, following a motion presented by independent member for Franklin, David O’Byrne.

In a symbolic vote which potentially foreshadows formal approval of enabling legislation that was introduced by the government on Tuesday, members of the House of Assembly on Wednesday voted 21-10 for a motion acknowledging the state’s AFL licence was “dependent on a multipurpose stadium being built at Macquarie Point”.

Absent from the 35-member chamber were Labor’s Shane Broad, and Liberal members Rob Fairs and Nic Street. The government provided Mr Broad with a pair, leaving 31 members taking part in the vote.

Independent member for Franklin David O'Byrne in Parliament. Picture: Linda Higginson

Mr O’Byrne’s motion also noted Business Events Tasmania’s estimate the stadium would generate $330 million in economic activity, and tourism industry predictions it will trigger a second “MONA effect” across the state.

“The motion further acknowledges that without the multipurpose stadium, Tasmania will lose not only our AFL team but also the massive economic opportunities across business events, sport and the arts for decades to come,” Mr O’Byrne said.

Meanwhile, the head of AFL Tasmania had written to stakeholders across the state, describing the impending parliamentary decision on the stadium as a “groundbreaking moment” for Tasmanian football.

Damian Gill said Tasmania was on the cusp of having a football industry the envy of the nation, and one that promised unprecedented opportunities for young people across the state.

Mr Gill reiterated recent comments from Tasmania Devils FC chief executive, Brendon Gale, that the AFL’s $360 million contribution to football in had largely been overlooked during recent arguments about the stadium.

“Of the $360 million committed, $126 million is dedicated to grassroots development and talent pathways up until the first decade of Tasmania’s life in the AFL competition,” Mr Gill said.

“This is a true game-changer for footy in our island.

“Since the announcement in 2023, this investment has begun flowing directly with immediate results for local clubs, programs, and communities.”

“[But] the $360 million investment cannot be fully realised without both a stadium and a team.

“These are essential pillars for unlocking the funding and securing lasting benefits for football in Tasmania.”

Originally published as Lower house indicate strong support for new stadium at Macquarie Point