That'd leave the Raiders and Brumbies homeless for years while the ASC, ACT gov, and Fed gov argue about whose responsibility it is and what to do about it, only for them to all agree to do the absolute bare minimum to get it reopened despite everybody agreeing that it needs to be replaced.
What was allowed to happen to the Arena was disgusting and the impact it had on the Capitals and other tenants was unforgivable.
If Bruce is allowed to get so bad that it has to be closed or condemned the Raiders should relocate.
Which is why it is imperative that the ACT govt find a new site with reasonable transport links.
Do whatever it takes to find a site close to the city centre. It would pay itself back in no time from the game day activation of local business. Parramatta city centre is gangbusters on game days since Commbank opened.
There is also no reason why the Feds can't kick in significant $ for a new stadium as well. The amount of money they give the AFL is obscene. Surely, a decent stadium in the nation's capital is not beyond funding properly. At some stage, maybe even soon, there may be an A-League team in Canberra as well. That's 3 tenants. Well worth the investment.
There is really no demand for any oval stadium upgrades. Manuka is more than sufficient for 3 games of AFL a season and a couple of cricket matches. If there is any submission for a multi-purpose stadium in Canberra, well the city will reap what it sows.
What it needs is a decent 30 000 seater with good (but not full) roof coverage. A Commbank style stadium would be more than sufficient.
Get it done Canberra.