Independent economist Dr Nicholas Gruen warns that the cost of Macquarie Point has been significantly underestimated and the project timetable is unrealistic. His report has sparked debate about the merits of the investment.

Ambitious project or financial burden?

The proposed Macquarie Point Stadium is expected to be ready for the 2029 season, a requirement for the Tasmanian Devils to enter the AFL (Australian Football League) a year early. However, Dr Gruen's analysis questions the realism of the timetable and budget. The expert points out that the construction of the facility in its current form is beyond financial feasibility and the benefits are overestimated.

Under the agreement between the Tasmanian Government and the AFL, the project has financial penalties in the event of delays. Failure to complete 50 % of the construction by October 2027 will cost the government $4.5 million, and failure to have the stadium ready to host matches in 2028 will cost another $4.5 million. Dr Gruen is calling for a renegotiation of these terms, arguing that the current model is unsustainable.

Dr Gruen is openly critical of the way the project is being run by the AFL and the Tasmanian government. It can't be done on time, it can't be done on budget - he stresses. The economist suggests extending the preparatory period to five to seven years to ensure proper planning and public consultation. He suggests using existing facilities such as Bellerive Oval and York Park as an interim solution.

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Political tensions surrounding project

Dr Gruen's report has introduced additional tensions in Tasmanian politics. Lyons MP Andrew Jenner, representing the Jacqui Lambie Network, pointed out numerous flaws in the AFL deal, asking rhetorically: I wonder who sat at that table? Were we even there? Or did they just do the agreement on their own, the AFL, and hand it to us? Jenner has announced that he will not support the bill in its current form.

The Labour Party, despite its previous support for the stadium, is also calling for clarification. Sports spokesman Luke Edmunds points out that the project cannot be a blank cheque. The party's decision will ultimately depend on the evidence presented in parliament.

Tasmanian Greens spokesperson Vica Bayley, said Dr Gruen's report confirms the long-standing concerns of the stadium's critics. The costs are underestimated, the benefits are overestimated. It's the wrong site and it's the wrong priority for Tasmania Bayley said.

What's next?

Macquarie Point Stadium is currently being assessed by the Tasmanian Planning Commission as a project of state significance. A final decision will require the approval of both houses of parliament, which, with the current balance of political power, is uncertain. Even if the project gains the support of the Labour Party and the government, it will still need the vote of one independent MP to go ahead.