The Macquarie Point Multipurpose Stadium project in Hobart has reached a key procurement milestone following the selection of Watpac Construction as the preferred tenderer.
The Tasmanian government confirmed the appointment after what it described as a rigorous, independent, and transparent evaluation process to secure the builder for the once-in-a-generation infrastructure project.
The Mac Point Multipurpose Stadium is set to become Tasmania’s premier sporting, arts and entertainment facility that will have 23,000 seats.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said it took a global search to select the builder for the waterfront precinct, noting the significant economic benefits expected for the state.
“This moment cannot be overstated – we are on the cusp of delivering thousands of jobs, injecting billions into our economy and creating a precinct that every single Tasmanian can be proud of,” Rockliff said.
“Activity will soon increase at the precinct, bringing with it opportunity and activity the likes of which Hobart has never seen before.”
Over the coming month, the Watpac team will collaborate directly with the Macquarie Point Development Corporation to finalise project delivery details.
Minister for Macquarie Point Urban Renewal Eric Abetz said critical preparatory site works are already under way, with heavy machinery active on location as the vision for the underutilised land takes shape.
“The submission received has been subject to a comprehensive evaluation process involving subject matter experts, technical specialists, advisers, commercial experts and multiple layers of governance and probity oversight,” Abetz said.
“The Macquarie Point Stadium will significantly boost tourism, it will boost economic activity, it will deliver jobs, training and a future for so many Tasmanians.”
The selection marks the conclusion of the Stage 1 evaluation phase, which followed an initial expression of interest process that established a shortlist of participating proponents.
The upcoming Stage 2 process will focus on further refining delivery strategy and facilitating continued engagement with local industry. Final contract award is currently targeted for the end of the year.