Jeremy Rockliff

Premier of Tasmania



3 March 2020

Peter Gutwein, Premier

Jane Howlett, Minister for Sport and Recreation

Tasmania on the national sporting stage

The Tasmanian majority liberal Government is creating more opportunities for Tasmanians to play sport at a national level.

We believe major sporting events support our economy whilst growing participation in healthy activities, which is why we are making strategic investments into our national sporting teams.

Premier Peter Gutwein said the Government was strongly focused on ensuring Tasmania was part of national sports leagues and steps already taken to pave the way for an NBL team, as well as positive discussions with the AFL, would revolutionise sporting pathways for Tasmanians.

“As Premier, I will also be meeting with Football Tasmania regarding their plans for an A League team for the State. We want all children to participate in sport and for those who show talent and drive to have a pathway into national competition.”

“Not only will these arrangements create significant opportunities to foster and develop our local talent across these sporting codes, but will create jobs and provide significant economic benefits to our state,” Premier Gutwein said.

Minister for Sport and Recreation, Jane Howlett, said an AFL team for Tasmania was expected to inject $110 million to the State’s economy each year and generate around 360 new jobs, while an NBL team would value add $102 million into our State, generating around 1,200 jobs.

“This is a game changer for our state and for every young Tasmanians aspiring to be the next Jack Reiwoldt, or Adam Gibson, and have the opportunity to play under a Tassie banner, rest assured we’re working very hard to make sure that is a reality.”

Being part of these national competitions will boost our economy, grow jobs and attract visitors, generating more revenue which can be invested into essential services like health, housing and education.



More Media Releases from Peter Gutwein

More Media Releases from the Premier