As the countdown intensifies for a decision on a Tasmanian AFL team, the bid has garnered support from the very top of Australian politics.
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Speaking at the National Press Club on Monday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he hoped to see Tasmania enter the competition to become the 19th team.
"Tasmania has produced some great champions in AFL over a long period of time," Albanese said.
"They've had of course Hawthorn... and North have played at Hobart.
"But that's a decision for the AFL.".
AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan said Tasmania's bid was contingent on the development of a new stadium.
"I don't think Tasmanians would want a team without a new stadium," McLachlan said at the AFL finals launch on Monday.
"That's what the deal's going to be and nothing's changed about that."
It was originally expected AFL club presidents would make a decision by the end of August.
McLachlan said Tuesday next week was the latest the club presidents would meet, but he didn't confirm if a vote would take place in that meeting.
He confirmed club presidents had not yet been given the final proposal for a 19th licence.
"But we just need to finalise a couple of things internally and a couple of things with the Tasmanian government," he said.
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Molly Appleton
Molly Appleton is a senior journalist at The Examiner, having formerly worked at The Advocate as a news and sports reporter. She brings a passion for storytelling and knowledge of Tasmania across the three major regions. For any story ideas contact her on 0448 184 160.
Molly Appleton is a senior journalist at The Examiner, having formerly worked at The Advocate as a news and sports reporter. She brings a passion for storytelling and knowledge of Tasmania across the three major regions. For any story ideas contact her on 0448 184 160.
