10 November 2025

Jane Howlett, Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events

Nick Duigan, Minister for Sport

The Richmond Football Club will be playing on Tasmanian soil next season, as part of an exciting new deal secured by the Government.
Minister for Tourism, Events and Hospitality, Jane Howlett, said having the club here is a great opportunity for Tasmanians to see their team at home.
“Tasmania has a football heritage as we know and we are looking forward to the inclusion of the Devils in the AFL competition,” Minister Howlett said.
“But until then, we have a lot of Richmond fans here in the State.
“They will now have the chance to see their team in action in Tasmania with one match at Ninja Stadium in season 2026 and one in 2027.
“People think of tourism as fly-in, fly-out visitors, but sporting events are a major force in driving positive economic activity.
“We know from experience that these AFL matches draw people from all over Tasmania and interstate, and provide a huge boost to the tourism and hospitality sectors.
“Sporting events drive economic benefit for local hotels, restaurants and tourism operators, while strengthening Tasmania’s identity as a destination known for excellence and industry expertise.
“The Tasmanian Government is delivering for our visitor economy, with a strong return on investment through our Events Strategy including a return of 5:1 from our support for Hawthorn games in the past.”
Richmond has a proud history in Tasmania, as home to some of the Club’s all-time greats including Matthew Richardson, Jack Riewoldt, Royce Hart, Ian Stewart, Michael Roach and Brendon Gale.
Current captain Toby Nankervis, along with Sam Banks, Seth Campbell, Rhyan Mansell, and AFLW player Mackenzie Ford, also hail from Tasmania.
The Club’s trailblazing first-ever Indigenous player, Derek Peardon, is another proud Tasmanian.
Minister for Sport Nick Duigan, said the Tasmanian Government is committed to giving Tasmanians access to high level sport.
“We know Tasmanians want to see high quality sporting fixtures in their home state,” Minister Duigan said.
“We’ve seen Tasmania defend the island for the JackJumpers, turn the state purple for the Hurricanes, and the momentum for our own Tassie Devils continues to take the nation by surprise.
“This new deal will complement the development of the Tasmania Devils and ensure we have access to fantastic AFL content right through until the Devils enter the AFL.
“We are pleased to be able to bring these games to Tasmanians on home soil, and to provide young people around the state with pathway opportunities to elite-level sports.
“It’s fantastic to see the enthusiasm of Tasmanians attending major sporting events. I look forward to seeing it continue.”
Richmond CEO Shane Dunne said the announcement was an exciting one for the Club and its supporters.
“Taking a home game to Tasmania next year provides a great opportunity to connect with our passionate supporters on the Apple Isle, while also giving Victorian members an affordable and enjoyable interstate weekend that includes watching the Tigers play,” Mr Dunne said.
“We thank the Tasmanian Government and the AFL for their support, and we are really looking forward to what this game will provide for Richmond and the Tiger Army.”