The co-location of the JackJumpers and Tasmania Devils high performance centres is set to stimulate Tasmania’s construction sector, boosting employment opportunities and backing the local economy.
Minister for Sports and Events, Nick Duigan, said the infrastructure developments were set to drive significant demand for the construction industry.
“We know the investment happening at this site will create a broader recreational hub, a true sports precinct, not just for elite sports people but for the local community and the whole State,” Minister Duigan said.
“The AFL HPC project is predicted to create approximately 250 direct and indirect jobs throughout its construction and operation.
“It is a similar scenario with the JackJumpers High Performance Centre, with around 40 tradespeople to be employed during the construction phase alone.”
The Tasmanian Liberal Government is proud to be investing $85 million across the two high performance centres.
Minister Duigan said the developments will also have flow on effects to the wider Kingborough municipality and throughout the region generating income for a whole range of businesses.
“The procurement of goods and services such as materials and other services required during the 18-month initial construction period for the Devils facility will further stimulate the economy,” Minister Duigan said.
“Once the AFL/AFW High Performance Centre is operating at full capacity from 2028 onwards, it is anticipated to house more than 120 staff members and a total of 65 players across the AFL and AFLW.
“When it comes to the AFL High performance centre alone, the regional direct and indirect economic impact will rise to $23.7 million by the time the facility opens in 2028.
Once in full operation, the two projects will inject more than $55m income into the local and regional economy.
The co-location of the Kingborough Knights Cricket Club and the Kingborough Tigers Football Club within the sports precinct will also have significant social benefits for the local community.
“The Kingborough Sport Precinct has a strong community focus, and everyone is committed to the community being proud of the venues, the teams, and the development pathways provided for junior and youth players,” Minister Duigan said.
“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are delivering game changing infrastructure for our state, generating hundreds of millions in economic activity, and creating jobs.”
The Tasmanian Small Business Council CEO, Robert Mallett, said the recent announcement that both the AFL High Performance Centre and the JackJumpers High Performance Centre will both be housed in Kinborough will give sporting hopefuls and small business people an injection of confidence rarely experienced.
“The role of Government is to facilitate enterprise and provide a climate for its growth. The collaboration between the Tasmanian Government and the Kingborough Municipality will do just that,” Mr Mallett said.
“These initiatives along with our vibrant fishing and forestry industries will make the Kingborough region an economic powerhouse in the state. How could anyone not be inspired by having the town of Kingston and the mouth of the Derwent River as your backdrop for your daily workplace?”
