Tasmanians will get the chance to have their say on the enabling legislation for the Macquarie Point stadium “this week”, with the state government promising to release a draft bill for public consultation on Tuesday.
The legislation will determine whether Tasmania gets a multi-purpose stadium at Macquarie Point and a Tasmania Devils AFL team, with the government maintaining its agreed-to stance that the two are inseparable.
“Let’s be clear. No stadium, no team,” Minister Felix Ellis said during a press conference on Monday. “That’s why this legislation is so important for the future of Tasmania.”
“We’re looking forward to providing the community the opportunity to have their say this week.”
The announcement comes as the government works to shore up support in the upper house following recent Legislative Council elections, where stadium supporters claimed wins in two of the three contested seats.
But the results haven’t dramatically changed the numbers, with Ellis conceding the chances of getting the bill through are “about the same” as before the poll.
“Clearly there was support for candidates who supported the stadium, noting the result in Pembroke and the result in Montgomery had more than 60% of votes cast for candidates that support the stadium,” Ellis said.
“So we’re keen to work closely with the Legislative Council and with the whole parliament to deliver this important legislation for the future of Tasmania.”
The stadium proposal has divided the state for months. Supporters say it will create construction jobs, boost tourism and help realise the state’s sporting ambitions.
Those opposed have questioned whether the project is worth the cost or the priority.
