The Tasmania Devils will play their first AFL seasons at existing venues while a new Macquarie Point stadium is delayed, with completion targeted for 2031 instead of 2028 as originally planned.

The $1.13 billion Macquarie Point stadium project, approved in December, is pushing back timelines due to probity checks and construction complexities.

Macquarie Point Development Corporation CEO Anne Beach says the goal is to finish by the end of 2030, but the stadium should be usable in 2031 after turf laying and establishment.

Officials point to government probity checks and process delays, with a minister emphasizing careful progress over speed.

MPDC's Anne Beach says the project is on contract timelines, though turf growth and permit obligations affect the schedule.

An expression of interest process is underway for the major contractor, with two shortlisted firms invited to tender and a major contractor to be announced by year-end.

Officials stress the need for proper turf establishment and full readiness, not just practical completion, contributing to the delay.

Readiness to play, including turf laying and establishment, is crucial alongside the structural completion.

Ministers acknowledge 2031 as the feasible start, while public and stakeholder sentiment has caused confusion and raised concerns about recruitment, memberships, and guarantees tied to the delay.

Cricket Australia raised concerns about the translucent roof causing shadowing, prompting testing of a matte layer solution to mitigate the issue.

The ETFE translucent roof is a defining feature, with testing suggesting it can diffuse light and reduce shadows, potentially allowing indoor test cricket beneath the roof.

A roofed stadium is a prerequisite for the Devils, and a translucent roof is being tested due to shadowing and safety concerns.