Tasmanian Labor Reconsidering Support for Macquarie Point Stadium Legislation

Tasmanian Labor is currently reviewing its stance on the approval process for the $945 million Macquarie Point stadium, signaling a potential shift away from backing the government’s fast-track scheme. The project, proposed as a waterfront stadium, is being assessed as a Project of State Significance by the Tasmanian Planning Commission.

The government and involved stakeholders have expressed concern that the project may not meet the tight timelines required by the Australian Football League. In June, the Liberal government introduced special legislation to bypass traditional planning processes, aiming to fast-track the stadium’s approval. This legislation was set for debate later this month but has been overshadowed by political upheaval, including a no-confidence motion in Premier Jeremy Rockliff, leading Tasmania into its fourth election in seven years.

Labor leader Dean Winter indicated that the party is now in discussions with stakeholders about the most appropriate approval process. When questioned whether Labor would support the enabling legislation, Winter said the party was “consulting” to determine the best approach. The Legislative Council, controlled by independents and minor parties with a nine-to-six split, makes the legislation’s passage uncertain, even if both major parties support it.

Regardless of whether the project proceeds via legislation or through the Planning Commission’s Project of State Significance process, final approval must be granted by both houses of parliament. Winter emphasized the importance of ensuring that whatever pathway is chosen has the best chance of success.

“Our priority is to find the right approval process to maximize the chances of getting the stadium built,” Winter said. “We need to work through the parliamentary process that makes the most sense and can deliver results.” He declined to comment on the likelihood of the legislation passing in its current form, stressing the need for careful consideration to ensure the project’s approval.