Posted: 2023-02-22 18:20:43

With the clock counting down on his time as head of the AFL, Gil McLachlan flies into Tasmania to again try to recruit supporters to the cause of a new stadium and team — but the issue remains as divisive as ever, with public feedback on the issue rivalling that of voluntary euthanasia.

McLachlan will spruik the benefits of a new Macquarie Point arena to Tasmanian tourism and business leaders today as a decision on federal funding for the contentious project looms.

He'll come armed with a multi-million dollar bounty for football in Tasmania in an attempt to win over stadium doubters.

It's understood McLachlan will announce a massive suite of funding for the local and grassroots game, regional talent academies, as well as a contribution to the stadium build.

The funding, understood to be upwards of $100 million, would be spread over 10 years but would be contingent on federal funding being granted for the new stadium.

But he will be swimming against a tidal wave of public opposition to the stadium project, with the $750 million price tag placed on it deemed unacceptable by a swathe of Tasmanians who say they instead want investment in the state's health system and public housing projects.

A day before McLachlan's arrival in the state, a parliamentary committee exploring the government's process into the feasibility and planning of the stadium revealed it had received a massive 926 public submissions, with most expressing concern about the cost and need for its construction. 

A concept design for an AFL stadium at Macquarie Point.
The business plan for the stadium states Tasmania would contribute $375 million and the AFL $15 million.(Supplied: AFL)
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