The money the state government props up Hawthorn and North Melbourne with has been a solid return on investment.

But the longer Tasmania's support has gone on, the more the AFL seems to take the commitment for granted.

A "they need us more then we need them" mentality. The AFL's arrogant approach to Tasmania has rightfully waned thin.

AFL Tasmania has long been perceived as a spineless organisation controlled by honchos in Melbourne and the state of the game in Tasmania has been in decline for a decade.

Sports such as soccer and basketball have overrun what traditionally has been a football heartland through engagement and increasing junior participation.

Meanwhile, it is looking increasingly likely the TSLW will fold as we know it due to a lack of funds. Leaving a pathway for the sport's biggest growth area in doubt.

There have been countless reports and reviews from the AFL into what the best make up of football is in Tasmania, but all have them have fallen on deaf ears.

Deals worth $8 million a year with the Hawks and Roos expire next year. Yet Premier Peter Gutwein is still unclear whether he should be extending those contracts or if taxpayers money should be invested in planning for a Tasmanian AFL team soon or another sport that will provide businesses with economic benefits.

Because partnerships work both ways and if one party isn't interested, then the AFL can pick up the tab for keeping lowly-ranked AFL clubs afloat and Mr Gutwein can move on and find alternatives to give Launceston business certainty in lean trading times.

There is no doubt losing Hawthorn would be detrimental but the AFL should not be made out to be the messiah it thinks it is.