“The Politicization of the Tasmanian AFL Team: A Game of Power and Partisanship”

Political Firestorm Over Tasmanian AFL Team

Despite efforts to keep sport out of politics, Tasmanian politics has become the battleground for the 19th AFL team. The Tasmanian state government promised to construct a new precinct on the Hobart waterfront as part of the deal with the AFL to launch the team. The AFL has also contributed a sum of $15 million to the construction project. However, the cost of the construction has caused Premier Jeremy Rockliff to lose the majority in the lower house after two Liberals resigned. The Australian Labor and Green parties and the public have also criticized the project, stating that the state government should focus on alleviating the cost-of-living crisis and housing concerns before committing to the stadium.

Stadium Economics

While the public raises concerns about the costs of the new precinct, the Tasmanian government insists that there will be knock-on benefits from the new stadium, including an estimated $2.2 billion of extra economic activity in 25 years. Furthermore, the government predicts the construction will generate 6,720 new jobs and boost tourism by around 123,500 visitors per year.

Some raise concerns that the stadium should not be built amid pressing health and housing issues. However, it is essential to note that the Tasmanian stadium comes at a fraction of the cost of other stadiums globally, including those in the US and Europe. Therefore, constructing a new stadium precinct is a public good and a significant social investment that will provide entertainment, excitement and social cohesion.

Assessing Stadium Value

While the government and AFL have committed funds to construct a new stadium, it is crucial to examine its creative and social potential and assess the value it will bring to society beyond the stimulation to tourism and economic growth.

The AFL has long been a significant part of Australian culture, and AFL matches bring people together, from all walks of life and regions. The construction of the new stadium can contribute to the local communities’ social fabric, providing much more than just jobs and economic growth.

Repercussions of Blocking Construction

If the construction of the new stadium precinct is rejected by the parliament, Tasmania risks losing its AFL team. Furthermore, those voting against the project, including the Greens, independents, or Tasmanian Labor, will likely get the blame if the stadium proposal is denied. However, the consequences of losing the Tasmanian AFL team could be severe and last for a generation or two.

Conclusion

The Tasmanian AFL team has ignited a political firestorm and raised concern about social issues such as housing and the cost of living. However, constructing a new stadium precinct can provide an essential social investment and contribute to the local communities’ social fabric. Additionally, rejecting this proposal could result in Tasmania losing the AFL team, which could have far-reaching consequences. Ultimately, it is essential to assess the value that the new stadium will bring to society beyond its economic benefits.