The race to build a new 23,000-seat AFL stadium in Hobart has narrowed to two contenders, marking a key step in one of Australia’s most debated sports infrastructure projects.
Australia-based Besix Watpac, known for delivering the recently opened One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch, is among the shortlisted firms. The company is also involved in a separate bid for Brisbane’s future Olympic Stadium, underlining its growing footprint in large-scale venue construction.
The second bid comes from the Constructure Joint Venture, a consortium bringing together Italy’s Webuild, China Construction Oceania, and engineering group McConnell Dowell. China Construction Oceania operates under the umbrella of a Chinese state-owned enterprise, adding an international dimension to the tender process.
Planned for Macquarie Point, the multi-purpose venue is set to become the home of Tasmania’s incoming AFL franchise while also hosting cricket and major events year-round. The development is part of a broader waterfront regeneration strategy unveiled by the Tasmanian Government.
Both bidders have now progressed to the request for tender phase, where detailed proposals will be evaluated across delivery strategy, technical capability, commercial structure, and commitments to local industry participation. A final decision is expected by the end of the year.
The project, valued at approximately A$1.13 billion, remains politically and publicly divisive. A Tasmanian Planning Commission panel previously concluded that projected costs could significantly outweigh the benefits and recommended against proceeding.
Despite that, the development received parliamentary approval in December, clearing the path for construction and aligning with plans to introduce a new AFL team in Hobart. Completion of the stadium is currently targeted for late 2030.