Hawthorn’s Tasmanian Era to End After 2027 Season

The AFL has confirmed that Hawthorn Football Club will stop playing home matches in Tasmania following the 2027 season, concluding a partnership that began in 2001. The decision, endorsed by the AFL Commission, is tied to the entry of the Tasmania Devils as the 19th team in the AFL competition in 2028.

"It is appropriate for the Devils to become the primary focus for football in the state."
— Tom Harley, AFL Chief Operating Officer

Key Details and Timeline

• Hawthorn has played home games at University of Tasmania Stadium (UTAS Stadium) in Launceston since 2001.
• Since 2007, the club has played four home-and-away games and one pre-season fixture annually in Tasmania.
• The agreement with the Tasmanian government was valued at approximately $4.5 million officially, with additional benefits bringing total value to over $5 million per year.
• The club will continue to play home games in Launceston during the 2027 season before transitioning those matches back to Melbourne.
• The Tasmania Devils are scheduled to enter the AFL in 2028, playing their first three seasons (2028-2030) at existing venues, including Hobart's Bellerive Oval and Launceston's UTAS Stadium. This is due to the delayed completion of the new Mac Point Stadium in Hobart, now slated for 2031.

Official Statements

AFL Chief Operating Officer Tom Harley

Hawthorn and Tasmania have had a successful partnership that benefited the state, the club, the AFL, and Hawthorn fans in Tasmania. Harley acknowledged Hawthorn's contribution to football in Tasmania and its role in growing the game. He stated that with the Tasmania Devils entering the AFL in 2028, it is appropriate for the Devils to become the primary focus for football in the state.

Hawthorn Football Club

The club is "extremely disappointed" with the AFL's decision. It said it "put forward a strong argument that it should continue to play games in Launceston into the future" and noted its 25-year contribution to AFL's growth in Tasmania, including economic benefits, attendance, and a loyal fan base. The club stated its removal would have a "material impact" on the club.

Hawthorn Coach Sam Mitchell

Mitchell expressed disappointment, describing the decision as being "kicked out of a home" and losing the community connection in Launceston.

Hawthorn President Andrew Gowers

Gowers called the partnership unprecedented in the AFL and said the club believes it can be stronger as a result.

Reactions and Concerns

Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood

Garwood criticized the decision, stating it was made without engagement from the AFL or the state government to understand its impact on Northern Tasmania. The City of Launceston reported that Hawthorn games generated approximately $80 million in economic benefit for Northern Tasmania between 2022 and 2025.

"This transition should not come at Northern Tasmania's expense."
— Mayor Matthew Garwood

Garwood proposed a compromise allowing a limited number of Hawthorn games during the transition, scheduled when the Devils are playing away. He emphasized support for the Tasmania Devils but said the transition should not come at Northern Tasmania's expense.

Former Hawthorn Player Peter Hudson

Hudson, who helped initiate the original deal, was quoted as saying the late Premier Jim Bacon would "turn in his grave" over the outcome.

AFL Commentator Garry Lyon

Lyon defended the decision, stating the Devils should not be a "half-Hawthorn footy team" and that Tasmania deserved a clean slate.

Additional Context

Tasmania Devils CEO Brendon Gale has requested the AFL terminate Hawthorn's agreement by the Devils' 2028 debut. The agreement was not factored into the Devils' initial business case, which aims to secure the support of all Tasmanians.

North Melbourne had a similar arrangement with Tasmania in Hobart that ended in 2025.