AFL and Western Australian Government in stand-off over Perth Stadium

Negotiations between the AFL and the Western Australian Government over matters relating to the new Perth Stadium have raised so many serious and unresolved issues that the code is threatening to stay at Domain Stadium.

In reports at the weekend, PerthNow and The Sunday Times revealed tensions over how to run the facility have led to disagreements on a number of issues – including the AFL’s desire to raise money by selling the naming rights. The AFL is also trying to limit the number of non-football events held there during the season, like rugby matches or music concerts.

Another sticking point has been the cost of ongoing maintenance and refurbishments. It is understood the AFL is even questioning if spectators should be stopped from bringing their own food and drink to matches.

AFL’s presence at the new $1.4 billion venue are being represented by the Joint Football Working Group, headed by AFL Chief Executive Gillon McLachlan.

In the past week, Western Australian Government representatives have reportedly complained about the AFL having an “entitlement attitude”.

Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett is reportedly unimpressed that the AFL would  threaten to play at Subiaco Oval instead of the 60,000 capacity stadium at Burswood.

Premier Barnett has reportedly considered to put on special trains to games at Domain Stadium, the former Subiaco Oval.

The AFL and the Western Australian Government did not deny they were at loggerheads when approached by The Sunday Times.

An AFL spokesman told PerthNow that recent meetings in Perth had been focused on “the design of the stadium and the financial and commercial arrangements that comprise a long-term user agreement”.

The spokesperson added “the AFL doesn’t do its negotiations via third parties through the papers.

“We will politely decline to comment, but our goal is to get the best outcome for our fans, the game and our clubs.”

Acting Western Australian Sports Minister Terry Redman said the state was “engaged in discussions with football about a range of issues to do with the new Perth Stadium.

“It would be inappropriate for the State Government to comment on the status of the confidential negotiations that are currently progressing with any of the future users of the new Perth Stadium.

The Perth Stadium is expected to open in time for the start of the 2018 AFL season.

Premier Barnett has previously said he was against selling the naming rights of the stadium.

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