Main works commence on $130m UTAS Stadium redevelopment

The redevelopment of the UTAS (University of Tasmania) Stadium in Launceston has reached a new milestone with main works commencing. 

The $130 million project is jointly funded by the Australian and Tasmanian Governments, each contributing $65 million. 

“The starting siren has sounded on the redevelopment of UTAS Stadium and the Australian Government has proudly kicked in $65 million. 

“As Tasmania’s AFL and AFLW teams prepare to enter the league, this upgrade will ensure UTAS remains Launceston’s premier sports, community and entertainment precinct. 

“I can’t wait to see my beloved Richmond Tigers play the Tassie Devils at the upgraded UTAS Stadium,” Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said. 

“The Tasmanian Government is contributing $65 million to deliver the upgrade of a world-class stadium in our state. 

“This is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about building a future for Tasmanian sport, which includes the entry of the Tasmanian Football Club into the AFL and AFLW competitions in 2028. 

“These upgrades will ensure UTAS Stadium remains a premier venue for elite sports, community events, and entertainment – not just for Launceston, but for all Tasmanians. 

“This revitalisation project will ensure UTAS Stadium continues to host world-class events, inspiring the next generation of sporting stars and reinforcing Tasmania’s status as a premier destination for major events and sporting excellence. 

“Our Government is getting on with the job, we are delivering for Tasmania. Together, we’re building more than a stadium – we’re building a legacy,” TAS Minister for Sport Nick Duigan said. 

Earlier this year, the City of Launceston Council approved the development application for this project that will deliver a premier sporting and events precinct in Northern Tasmania. 

The redevelopment will transform the stadium into a world-class venue ahead of the Tasmania Football Club’s (the Devils) entry into the AFL and AFLW competitions in 2028. 

“The Albanese Government’s $65 million investment is already delivering for Tasmanians, creating work for local people, opportunities for local businesses, and economic benefits that will continue well into the future. 

“This redevelopment will deliver modern stands, improved accessibility, and upgraded facilities – so UTAS Stadium can host world-class sport and major events for years to come. 

“When Tasmania’s AFL and AFLW teams debut in 2028, they will do so in a stadium that reflects our pride, meets their ambition, and provide Devils’ fans with a truly world-class experience,” Federal Member for Lyons Rebecca White said. 

Project scope (source: Infrastructure Tasmania)

Local builder Fairbrother Pty Ltd will be undertaking project construction. 

The Main Works package for the UTAS Stadium redevelopment will include: 

• New Centre West Stand – featuring premium seating, corporate function spaces, media facilities, and refurbished player change rooms. Completion is scheduled for October 2027. 

• Redeveloped Eastern Stand – delivering 3,629 new seats with modern food, beverage, and toilet amenities. Completion expected by March 2027. 

• Western Stand Infill Seating – adding a new Level 1 grandstand with improved fan proximity and 45 accessible seats. Completion due by September 2026. 

• Southern Patron Amenities – including Changing Places facility and upgraded male and female toilets 

From the week of 15 September 2025, demolition of the existing Centre West Stand will be carried out. 

“As a local company, Fairbrother is proud to play a leading role in the transformation of UTAS Stadium – a project that will create local jobs, boost regional economic activity, and highlight Northern Tasmania’s construction capability. 

“This redevelopment is a fantastic opportunity for our people, our subcontractors and suppliers to deliver a rewarding and challenging project while contributing to a landmark Tasmanian venue. We’re committed to delivering a world-class venue for Tasmanians, supporting elite sport and community events. 

“Thank you to the State and Federal Governments, Stadium Tasmania, and all partners – together, we’re building the foundation of a legacy for Tasmania’s future,” Fairbrother Pty Ltd CEO Kurt Arnold said. 

The capacity of UTAS Stadium will be temporarily reduced to about 9,000 during the 2026 AFL season and increase to around 17,000 in 2027 as new seating areas come online. 

UTAS Stadium will continue to host major sporting content throughout the redevelopment. Events will include: 

• AFLW matches featuring North Melbourne in October 2025 

• Hawthorn Football Club home games in 2026 and 2027 

• North Launceston Football Club fixtures 

• Tasmania Football Club home games from 2026 (VFL/VFLW) and 2028 (AFL/AFLW) 

• Anticipated return of Big Bash cricket with the Hobart Hurricanes in 2026-27 cricket season 

“I’m looking forward to cheering on the Devils at the upgraded world-class stadium with a significantly increased crowd capacity. 

“Launceston already has a great sporting legacy and this project will ensure that continues for generations to come,” Federal Member for Bass Jess Teesdale said. 

“This milestone marks the beginning of the most substantial phase of the redevelopment. 

“It ensures the project remains on time and on budget, while delivering a venue that meets the needs of elite sport, community users, and fans alike,” Stadiums Tasmania CEO James Avery said. 

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Premier of Tasmania – Latest News