Tasmanian AFL Bid: The Journey to a 19th Licence
The quest for a dedicated Australian Football League (AFL) team in Tasmania was a journey marked by political tension, rigorous financial scrutiny, and ultimate triumph. For years, the state sought a 19th licence to bring professional football home, transitioning from hosting home games for Victorian clubs to securing its own place in the national competition.
The 2021 Conflict and the Carter Review
In 2020, the momentum of the bid shifted under the leadership of Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein. A former East Launceston player, Gutwein adopted a significantly more aggressive approach than previous leaders. In 2021, the state government leveraged its power by refusing to negotiate extensions for Hawthorn and North Melbourne to host home games in Launceston and Hobart, respectively, unless the AFL provided a firm timetable for a Tasmanian team.
The AFL initially rejected this demand, citing the need to assess financial and investment risks following the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, they commissioned an independent review into the merits of the bid.
![Tasmanian premier Peter Gutwein adopted a more aggressive stance on the Tasmanian bid than his predecessors[29]](/images/2a/df/2adf41b9ed8448e80b372fbc38469075d767ecdaf47f4c5cd4fad563e7662bb2.jpg)
This independent investigation, known as the Carter Review, was led by former AFL commissioner and Geelong Football Club president Colin Carter. Completed in July 2021, the review concluded that while a 19th licence for a stand-alone team was possible, a relocated team or a joint venture with a Victorian club might be more sustainable. However, the report noted that financial barriers to a new team could be overcome with combined league and government funding.
Building Momentum: 2022–2023
Despite initial frustrations over the Carter Review's lack of an explicit endorsement for a 19th licence, progress accelerated in 2022. Premier Gutwein unveiled ambitious plans for a 27,000-seat stadium at Regatta Point on the banks of the River Derwent. This proposed venue, featuring a retractable roof and an estimated cost of $750 million, was designed to be completed by 2027, contingent on the bid's success.
By March 2022, the AFL confirmed it possessed the resources to support an expanded competition, as pandemic-related losses were lower than anticipated. AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan indicated that discussions were becoming "meatier" and the framework for admission was in place, provided the state government offered significant financial backing.
Securing the Agreement
Under the leadership of new Premier Jeremy Rockliff, an in-principle agreement was reached in November 2022. The Tasmanian government committed to $12 million annually over 12 years, along with $60 million for a high-performance and administration complex. The final hurdle was the funding for the Macquarie Point Stadium, which was resolved in April 2023 when the Albanese federal government pledged $240 million.
The Final Vote and Admission
With all prerequisites met, the bid moved to a vote by the 18 existing club presidents. According to the AFL Constitution, a two-thirds majority was required for approval. On May 2, 2023, the bid received unanimous support. The following day, at a press conference at North Hobart Oval, Gillon McLachlan formally announced that the Tasmanian team would enter the AFL in the 2028 season.
Key Facts
- Entry Date: The Tasmanian team is scheduled to join the AFL in the 2028 season.
- Stadium Plans: A 27,000-seat retractable-roof stadium at Regatta Point with an estimated $750 million cost.
- Government Funding: $12 million per year for 12 years, plus $60 million for administration facilities.
- Federal Support: The Australian federal government contributed $240 million toward the stadium.
- Approval: The bid was passed with unanimous support from all 18 AFL club presidents on May 2, 2023.
| Year | Key Event | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Carter Review | Determined a 19th licence was possible with funding. |
| 2022 | Stadium Proposal | Plans for a $750m venue at Regatta Point unveiled. |
| 2022 | Commercial Agreement | In-principle agreement on funding and terms. |
| 2023 | Federal Funding | $240 million committed by the Albanese government. |
| 2023 | Presidential Vote | Unanimous approval for entry in 2028. |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Tasmanian team start playing in the AFL?
The team is officially scheduled to enter the competition in the 2028 season.
What was the purpose of the Carter Review?
The Carter Review was an independent assessment to determine the merits and sustainability of Tasmania's bid for a 19th AFL licence, considering options like a stand-alone team, a relocated team, or a joint venture.
How is the new stadium being funded?
Funding includes a $240 million commitment from the federal government, alongside state government backing, to build the $750 million Macquarie Point Stadium.
Did all AFL clubs agree to the expansion?
Yes, the bid received unanimous support from all 18 AFL club presidents during the vote held on May 2, 2023.
Will there be a Tasmanian women's team?
While the men's team admission is confirmed for 2028, the timeline for admission into the AFL Women's (AFLW) competition is to be developed at a later date.