Joining the wave of support behind Tassie's push for national inclusion, Richmond's newly-appointed development coach said it was imperative that the state build sufficient foundations for a franchise.

"The idea is fantastic, and I'd love to see a Tassie team enter," he said.

TIME TO DECIDE:

"But it's important to build from the bottom up, not the top down. Planning is the key to success - a great business plan and strategy ensures we don't find ourselves hurting in five or six years' time.

"It's got to be a thorough process and the danger is if you focus too much on the end goal you can drift away from the process which could lead to future issues.

"But if the process is right, it will enable stability long term."

The 32-year-old father-of-two from Beauty Point played two games for the Tigers after an eight-year, 79-game spell with Essendon.

Since calling time on his AFL career in 2013 at the young age of 26, Lonergan has coached Launceston in the State League as well as Glenelg and Woodville West Torrens in the SANFL.

He said a Tassie team would also need total support in the state.

"Grass root issues need to be addressed and you've got to get the support of Tasmanian people so need to listen to them and get it right," he added. "That way you build a foundation of potential long-term members and increase our financial stability."

Subscriptions are available here.

Sign up to our Sport email here.

Know a junior sport star? Make a nomination for our 2019 Junior Sports Awards here.