MoU signed on future AFL and AFLW content ahead of proposed UTAS Stadium transfer

A Memorandum of Understanding on future AFL and AFLW content in Launceston has been formally signed by the City of Launceston and Tasmanian Government ahead of the proposed transfer of UTAS Stadium to the new State Government entity Stadiums Tasmania.

York Park, known commonly as UTAS Stadium through a commercial sponsorship agreement, is currently owned and operated by the City of Launceston.

Following an extensive public consultation process, the Council is considering the transfer of ownership of the Stadium to the new management entity Stadiums Tasmania.

Last year the Council endorsed the draft Memorandum of Understanding, which reinforces the intention to at minimum retain the current level of AFL and AFLW content at UTAS Stadium into the future, both before and after the introduction of a Tasmanian AFL club.

Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said UTAS Stadium was a significant asset, delivering more than $30 million in visitor spending within the Northern Tasmanian economy each year.

Mayor Garwood notes "before we consider any formal transfer of ownership, the City of Launceston has been really keen to ensure this development of a Memorandum of Understanding with the State Government expressing clear commitments around future content at UTAS Stadium.

"While the Stadiums Tasmania Act 2022 specifies that Stadiums Tasmania must continue to attract and deliver international and national sporting, entertainment and events content, we're hopeful this Memorandum of Understanding will give additional assurance to our community that Council and State Government are committed to growing content at UTAS Stadium under a new management model, long into the future.

"The Memorandum of Understanding represents a clear, publicly stated commitment, on top of the legally binding responsibilities outlined in the Stadiums Tasmania Act 2022."

Tasmanian Minister for Stadia and Events, Nic Street said the State Government and City of Launceston had worked collaboratively on the Memorandum of Understanding.

Minister Street added "UTAS Stadium is a key piece of infrastructure for Northern Tasmania… Stadiums Tasmania’s remit includes attracting content to stadia right across the State.

"We will do everything we can to ensure Northern Tasmania is, at the very least, no worse off for AFL content as we work towards our own Tasmanian Team running onto the field."