First tender for $130m UTAS Stadium redevelopment now out to market

The redevelopment of the University of Tasmania (UTAS) Stadium in Launceston has marked a key milestone with the tender for the upgrade of matchday facilities now out to market. 

This tender is the first to be released as part of the overall stadium redevelopment project, which is jointly funded by the Tasmanian and Australian Governments – each contributing $65 million. 

“This is more than an investment in sporting infrastructure; it is an investment in the Northern Tasmanian economy. 

“The Australian Government will continue to work in partnership with the Tasmanian Government to revitalise UTAS Stadium in a way that benefits everybody who uses it and wants to be part of it. 

“With a combined contribution of $130 million to the project we want to see as much of that money as possible going into local businesses,” Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said. 

The works are going to be carried out within the existing Carlton and United Breweries Stand, upgrading the facilities to tier 2 code guidelines. 

The upgrade will involve refurbishing change rooms for umpires, officials and players, including medical, massage and strapping rooms, a briefing room, and warm-up and training spaces. 

Artist impression of the redeveloped UTAS Stadium (source: Infrastructure Tasmania)

Future upgrades to the UTAS Stadium, including the new centre west stand, will be part of a Development Application to be submitted to Launceston City Council later this year. 

Suitably qualified construction contractors are now invited by Infrastructure Tasmania to submit tenders for the Matchday Facilities Upgrade. The tender will close on 19 July 2024. More information about the tender, including prequalification requirements, can be found here. 

Major construction activities are expected to commence in October of this year. 

Meanwhile, the transfer of UTAS Stadium from the City of Launceston to Stadiums Tasmania is progressing and is expected to be finalised in the coming months. 

“This is the first of five tenders that will be released over the coming months and we are excited to get the ball rolling with the matchday facilities upgrade. 

“These are the facilities used by both local and visiting athletes and sports stars, as well as umpires and support staff – to attract the best events and the best competitors we need these amenities to be up to standard. 

“The release of this first tender is an important step forward, bringing the vision for UTAS Stadium closer to reality. 

“With Stadiums Tasmania set to take control of the stadium, we are getting on with the upgrade and delivering a more accessible UTAS Stadium that meets the tier 2 sporting code standard. 

“Under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we’re investing in our sporting facilities to ensure Tasmanians have great facilities here at home,” Tasmanian Sport and Events Minister Nic Street said. 

Source: Infrastructure Tasmania

The UTAS Stadium redevelopment will include: 

• New centre-west stand 

• • New seating options and more accessible seating and spectator amenities 

• • New and more contemporary player/home team change room facilities and amenities 

• • A new integrated interchange bench and new coaches’ boxes for use on matchdays 

• • New corporate and hospitality facilities, including premier seating within the new seating tier 

• • New media and broadcasting facilities 

• Redeveloped eastern stand and entry plaza 

• • New and more accessible spectator facilities and seating 

• • Improved spectator amenity and atmosphere, including bringing fans closer to the playing field 

• • The capacity for new toilets, food and beverage and associated amenities 

• • Landscaping to the south-east entry which will help to spread entry/exits around the venue 

• • A stronger connection and links with the wider Inveresk precinct, the Queen Victoria Museum and Art gallery, and the University of Tasmania 

• Matchday facility upgrades within the existing Carlton and United Breweries stand 

• New infill seating to the western stand, which will provide new accessible seating options and enable spectators to become closer to the on-ground action 

• Sports lighting upgrades 

• Replacement of the current LED ribbon board 

• Accessibility and compliance upgrades, including all new works complying with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) and a series of identified small works, to upgrade and futureproof the stadium and provide an increases atmosphere and venue experience 

“This is an example of supporting both the economic activity and proud sporting legacy of Tasmania’s north. 

“Through this investment, UTAS Stadium will become another example of the flow-on benefit that quality sporting facilities in close proximity to urban centres spread across local businesses and the local economy,” Senator for Tasmania Helen Polley said. 

“We know what a significant venue this is for Launceston. When UTAS Stadium hosts AFL matches, Cricket and even right down to grass roots sports, there is an exciting feel around the town. 

“I cannot wait to see these exciting upgrades come to life,” Member for Bass Rob Fairs said. 

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