More fans, closer to the action as new stand opens at Launceston's UTAS stadium

Work on the new Western Stand at Launceston’s UTAS stadium is now complete. It’s another major milestone on the $130 million development of the facility, funded by the Albanese and Rockliff Governments.

The new Western Stand repurposes previously unused space between the stand and the pitch, with the new infill seating giving an extra 1,500 fans a front row seat to the action.

Spectators will now enjoy modern facilities with wider concourse areas, improving patron circulation and better match-day experiences.

The Western Stand completion is the latest milestone in a range of upgrades already delivered ahead of the 2026 AFL season, including new changerooms, a new interchange bench and the installation of LED ribbon boards.

The Stadium is being upgraded in stages, to allow games to continue. When the Eastern stand is completed early next year, and the new Centre-West Stand is finished at the end of next year, the venue’s total capacity will increase to around 17,500.

Accessibility improvements include 39 contemporary, purpose-built accessible seating areas, designed to support groups to experience the action together, regardless of their accessibility needs.

Home to regular community sporting matches, the redeveloped stadium will become the second home of the Tassie Devils upon their admission into the AFL in 2028.

Cricket will also return to Launceston’s UTAS Stadium when the Hobart Hurricanes play the Adelaide Strikers in January 2027.

The project is one of the largest construction projects in northern Tasmania, creating 566 jobs and is being delivered by local construction company, Fairbrother.

It remains on schedule and within budget, with completion expected in November 2027.

“My Government is investing to strengthen northern Tasmania’s economy, create jobs and provide better facilities.

“This upgrade means cricket and AFL fans will be closer to the action and Launceston has a world-class venue, ready to host the next big concert.”  

“The completion of the Western Stand is a significant milestone for UTAS Stadium and Northern Tasmania.

“For fans, this milestone means more seats, better views and improved accessibility, delivering a fantastic home for sport and major events.

“As outlined in our Northern Economic Plan, we are making this region Australia’s premiere destination for visitors, events and business tourism.”

“This project is bringing fans closer to the action and will bring more sport to northern Tasmania.

“This important redevelopment is creating jobs, supporting local industry and delivering infrastructure that will benefit northern Tasmania for decades to come.

“I’m excited to see more matches kicking off in Launceston over the coming AFL and cricket seasons."

“These upgrades are helping ensure UTAS Stadium remains a premier regional venue capable of hosting elite sport and major events for years to come.

“The Western Stand completion is the latest milestone in a range of upgrades already delivered ahead of the 2026 AFL season.

“Local construction company, Fairbrother is doing a fantastic job delivering the works, on time and on budget. Bring on completion in 2027.”

“We’re really pleased to have completed the new Western Stand while the stadium has remained operational, hosting AFL matches, community sport and other events throughout construction.

“The redevelopment demonstrates Stadiums Tasmania's ability to successfully manage large-scale infrastructure projects in a live venue environment while continuing to deliver events and services for the community.”

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