Tasmanian Labor will support the Macquarie Point stadium, leader Josh Willie has confirmed, citing the need to secure the state’s AFL and AFLW teams.
Willie outlined his party’s position after caucus discussions on Monday, following the release of the Tasmanian Planning Commission’s report last week.
“Our view is that the stadium is a necessary requirement to deliver the Tasmania Football Club and AFL and AFLW teams and ensure that they are successful both on and off the field,” he said.
Labor had been taking time to consider the commission’s report before deciding on a final position.
“We support the project’s approval because it will create desperately needed jobs and economic activity and give young people another reason to stay in Tasmania,” Willie said.
Labor believes challenges identified in the planning report can be resolved before the final order is tabled in parliament.
Willie said the opposition considered the potential fallout if the government failed to deliver on its commitments as agreed to.
“If the state government is unable to meet its commitments it will significantly hurt confidence in our state,” he said.
However, Labor remains wary of the Liberal government’s infrastructure track record.
“We remain deeply concerned about cost blowouts and the Liberals’ record on delivering major infrastructure projects,” he said, referencing the ongoing Spirits of Tasmania saga.
He has pledged to scrutinise costs and timelines while offering constructive solutions.
Labor took a pro-stadium position to the last state election after going into the one before it opposed to the project.
“We urge the government to strike the right tone during upcoming debate to secure the support of independents,” Willie said.
Macquarie Point Urban Renewal Minister Eric Abetz had this morning called on Labor to clarify its position on the stadium.
In response to Labor’s announcement this afternoon, the Minister said he was thankful for their support.
“This is a once in a generation opportunity and it is time to get on with it,” he told Pulse.
“We welcome Labor reconfirming their commitment to Macquarie Point Stadium.”
Meanwhile Greens leader Rosalie Woodruff says Labor are “co-signing” a “blank cheque for Jeremy Rockliff’s stadium”.
“The so-called ‘Opposition’ are refusing to hold the government to account over this billion dollar albatross,” Woodruff said.
“Instead of real scrutiny, they’ve pledged unconditional support for the stadium — no matter the cost, problem or desperate mismanagement.”
Abetz said the government hopes to have the work needed to begin construction in the new year complete by Christmas.
