This is a media release from the Tasmanian Government from Rebecca Courtney, Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events. 

As Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, I am thrilled that Tasmania has secured the first 20 games of this season’s Women’s Big bash League and that top-level AFL footy will return in 2022 with the Hawks and the Kangaroos set to play in Tasmania.

These two major coups will no doubt provide a massive injection to our hard-working tourism and hospitality businesses at a time when they need it most, while showcasing our state on the national stage where it rightly belongs.

The Women’s Big Bash League will see the games spread across the State, with nine at Blundstone Arena, along with eight games at UTAS Stadium and three games at Invermay Park. Nine of these will be broadcast to an estimated audience of 1.8 million viewers.

In addition, a further boost will be provided to our tourism and hospitality industry with negotiations concluding for a one-year extension to the Hawthorn and North Melbourne deals to place AFL in Tasmania in 2022.

This announcement builds on our recent success hosting two blockbuster AFL finals which saw thousands of Tasmanians flock to Launceston to take part in the action and support small businesses and accommodation providers.

There is no denying Tasmania is a sport loving state, and this is an exciting opportunity for Tasmanians to enjoy another season of top-class footy and cricket while stimulating our economy and supporting businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry.