I would argue until I'm blue in the face that this is not a waste of money.
The increased capacity is only part of the plans.
Of course, the old argument is that the money should be better spent on hospitals.
Well, if thats the case, Governments should not put a cent into the arts or any sporting stadium.
Fact is, it is the job of Government to provide a range range of infrastructure in the community, and that includes sparting facilities. Parramatta Stadium was becoming outdated, whilst at the same time, Parramatta's CBD is under going tremendous change. It's highly appropriate that governments spend money to give the biggest CBD city a decent sporting stadium.
The conference facility is quite significant as well. This may come as a surprise, but in Parramatta there is actually a shortage of decent sized conference venues. Big deal you may say, but that means when it comes to attracting business, Parramatta lose out to other parts of Sydney.