Stadiums Tasmania Announces Departure of Inaugural CEO James Avery

Stadiums Tasmania Chair Jill Davies today announced that inaugural Chief Executive Officer, James Avery, will step down on 4 October 2026 to pursue a new executive opportunity.

Ms Davies paid tribute to Mr Avery’s achievements during his three years at the helm of Tasmania’s pre-eminent venue authority.

"In his time as inaugural CEO, James’ outstanding leadership has been integral to our success. He has built Stadiums Tasmania into a respected venue manager and adviser and has driven our strategic direction.”

"He has played a key role in supporting the planning approval and design development of the Macquarie Point Multipurpose Stadium, and has overseen major infrastructure initiatives at UTAS Stadium and the Silverdome. In addition, he has led the creation of a major venues content strategy for Tasmania and the staging of the Foo Fighters' exclusive Tasmanian concert in January 2026, the state's largest ever music concert.” Ms Davies said.

Mr Avery said “I’m excited to embrace a new opportunity, however my departure is tinged with sadness given Stadiums Tasmania’s exciting future and the many incredible projects and growth opportunities currently underway.”

"I feel extremely privileged to have been entrusted to build an organisation like Stadiums Tasmania and proud of our people and what we’ve achieved in such a short space of time.”

“I thank the Board for its unwavering support in establishing Stadiums Tasmania. Together, we’ve positioned the organisation to deliver enormous benefits to Tasmanians and I am confident the best is yet to come,” Mr Avery said.

Stadiums Tasmania was established in 2022 to own and operate Tasmania’s major venues, including the Macquarie Point Stadium. It currently owns and operates UTAS Stadium and the Silverdome, with Ninja Stadium and MyState Bank Arena also earmarked for transfer to Stadiums Tasmania.

The Board will shortly commence a national executive search to appoint Stadiums Tasmania's next Chief Executive Officer and will work closely with Mr Avery and the executive team to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing delivery of its projects and priorities.

Jill Davies
Chair, Stadiums Tasmania