ABC RADIO: Leon Compton interviews Minister Abetz

by | April 14, 2025

The Tasmanian government will introduce legislation to push the Macquarie Point stadium through, bypassing the planning process.

The project was going to be assessed by Tasmania’s Planning Commission, but Business, Industry and Resources Minister Eric Abetz tells Leon Compton on Tasmania Mornings the TPC’s report is “argumentative”.

The Minister responds to questions about the actual cost of the project and whether private investors will help fund it.

Despite Premier Rockliff wanting construction to start next December, Minister Abetz admits the government has neither a final design for the proposed Macquarie Point Stadium, nor a final budget. He defends the government’s move to preempt the PoSS process and repeats the arguments about the untold benefits for Tasmanian youth and the streams of revenue which will flow into the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Minister Eric Abetz was asked a direct question by Leon Compton:
‘How much will the stadium cost?’ His lengthy reply speaks volumes – in part: ‘The costs will be determined ultimately when the final decisions are made in relation to the exact plan etc, so those matters still are in the process of being worked through … ’

Timings:

07:50: Introduction and welcome to Minister Abetz

Interview ends: 29:45

Calls from listeners:

35:23 – 49:53
Listen here