AFL Northern Territory (AFLNT), in collaboration with Stadiums North Australia and Larrakia Development Corporation, is excited to announce the release of the Darwin City Stadium Plan. This comprehensive plan, now released to the public for consultation, sets the foundation for a state-of-the-art stadium and sports infrastructure in the Northern Territory.
The plan, which includes a wide range of facility types and site options for a future stadium, has been carefully crafted to ensure that future facilities cater to the long-term benefit of all sporting codes and the broader community. Ongoing consultation with key stakeholders, including Larrakia people, will be integral to its development, ensuring that the final product will reflect the aspirations of the local community and sporting organizations.
Chairman of AFLNT Board, Sean Bowden said, “We are proud to collaborate with Stadiums North Australia and the Larrakia Development Corporation on this important project for the Northern Territory.
This stadium will be an iconic landmark, wherever it is built, and will be a key driver of not only Australian Rules football, but a wide range of sports including Cricket, Rugby League, Rugby Union, and Soccer."
“A state-of-the-art Stadium within a new development precinct will enhance the liveability of the Territory and be part of how we project ourselves to the rest of Australia and the world”.
“The Stadium will anchor the opportunity to bid for a 20th licence in the AFL should that opportunity arise”.
"Importantly, we will ensure that Larrakia people’s voice will be central in the decision-making process., Larrakia design principles will be reflected in the stadium’s design and we hope that the Larrakia will have a significant stake in its ownership."
The release of the plan follows off the back of AFLNT’s Strategic Business Plan, which, in May 2024, identified a stadium as essential to a pathway for securing an AFL team for the Territory. The potential financial and community benefits outlined in the business plan further highlight the importance of this infrastructure to the region. The Strategic Business Plan is here: Darwin City Stadium Plan
Mark Motlop from Larrakia Development Corporation said, "Maintaining the integrity of Larrakia cultural values is fundamental to this process. We are committed to working closely with AFLNT and Stadiums North Australia to ensure that any developments in our land respect our principles, traditions, and the needs of the broader community," said
"We look forward to continuing the consultation and playing an active role in the future of this project."
AFLNT and Stadiums North Australia invites all stakeholders and members of the public to provide feedback on the plan to ensure the final proposal serves the best interests of the Northern Territory.
As part of its commitment to inclusivity, AFLNT also looks forward to ongoing collaboration with Larrakia Development Corporation, Gwalwa Dariniki and Larrakia Nation not only in relation to the stadium but also in future development of grounds and facilities.
Stakeholders and community members are encouraged to submit their feedback and thoughts on the plan, which will be considered in the final decision-making process.
For further information or to submit feedback, please see feedback form here.