MyState Bank Arena is one of Tasmania’s premier indoor entertainment venues.
With the NBL granting a licence for the Tasmania JackJumpers to enter the NBL for the 2020-21 season, MyState Bank Arena required a major redevelopment to transform it into a modern, flexible facility capable of hosting professional basketball alongside concerts, trade shows, conferences, and large‑scale events. The $56 million upgrade, funded by the Tasmanian Government, was designed to improve the arena to NBL standard while preserving its position as Tasmania’s largest capacity indoor venue, accommodating 4,300 spectators for basketball and more than 7,000 for concerts.
The redevelopment focused on creating a flexible NBL‑standard show court, new players changerooms, improved hospitality and food and beverage areas, and dedicated VIP zones. The project also delivered a complete roof replacement and extensive external works to improve access, safety, and operational efficiency. These enhancements positioned the venue to meet national sporting requirements while strengthening its role as a premier destination for entertainment and major events.
Cost planning for a complex live‑venue redevelopment
WT was engaged to provide quantity surveying and cost planning services across all stages of the redevelopment, including during the construction phase and final account reconciliation. Our role centred on ensuring the project maintained financial certainty and delivered maximum value while meeting the technical requirements of an elite sports venue.
We worked closely with the Tasmanian Government and the wider project team to develop accurate cost planning that aligned scope and budget from the outset, providing clarity as the design evolved and ensuring the redevelopment remained achievable within funding parameters. We also provided value added services including procurement advice and a replacement cost estimate to assist the client with their insurance requirements.
During construction, we led post‑contract administration which included preparing monthly progress claim payment recommendations and undertaking detailed assessments of contractor variation submissions and extension of time claims. This role was particularly critical given the project was delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic, when market volatility and supply challenges placed additional pressure on cost, sequencing, and procurement. We also assisted the client by making recommendations on consultant claims and providing ad hoc, timely support throughout this fast-paced project.
Our involvement enabled the client to maintain strong financial control and navigate uncertainty without compromising quality or program.
A revitalised venue strengthening Tasmania’s entertainment landscape
The completed MyState Bank Arena development restored and enhanced a key community asset, delivering a modern, flexible venue that supports elite sport, concerts, conferences, and major events. The redevelopment has elevated Tasmania’s ability to attract national‑level entertainment and strengthened the long‑term viability of the state’s sporting and cultural calendar.
Image: Copyright Building Tasmania
