Kingborough Council has unanimously approved the development application for the Tasmanian Devils’ new high-performance centre in Kingston.
The decision at Monday night’s council meeting clears the way for construction of the facility ahead of Tasmania’s AFL and AFLW debut.
The centre will include a full gymnasium, an indoor training field, specialist training rooms and an 80-seat lecture theatre.
Administrative areas will accommodate about 80 staff, while public spaces will feature a cafe and a club merchandise store.
Tasmania Football Club general manager of infrastructure and commercial development Michael Thorn welcomed the green light.
“The club wishes to thank all those involved in achieving this approval, most importantly the Kingborough Council, Kingborough Knights Cricket Club and Kingborough Tigers Football Club and residents of the municipality,” he said.
“The development approval enables the club to move to the construction tendering phase of the project in the new year, creating jobs for local firms across many different trades.”
“We can’t wait to get started.”
The application received eight public representations, which councillors said was relatively low given the scale of the proposal.
Deputy Mayor Clare Glade-Wright said the development would deliver significant benefits for the region.
“Young Tasmanians will finally have a clear pathway to elite sport without leaving home,” she said.
“It will support healthier, more active lifestyles through community programs and it will build a strong sense of pride as the Tasmania Devils establish their home here in Kingborough.”
“And in the long term, this development will attract families and workers, strengthening our region.”
“It will put Kingborough firmly on the national sporting map, raising our profile and opening doors for future opportunities.”
During the debate, councillors raised questions about parking capacity, tree removal and stormwater management.
Officers confirmed 150 new car parks would be built and said a precinct-wide stormwater plan was being prepared.
Conditions were added requiring bicycle parking and end-of-trip facilities to encourage active transport.
The centre will serve as both a training hub for players and a community asset, with plans for engagement activities and education programmes.
Construction tendering is expected to begin in early 2026.
