Penrith are negotiating with the Tasmanian government to play NRL games in Hobart.

According to News Corp Australia, it is believed the deal would be similar to AFL premiers Hawthorn for four home games in Launceston, but without the sponsorship component, and would include growing rugby league in Tasmania.

Tourism Minister Scott Bacon confirmed a meeting with the Panthers last Thursday, when Penrith representatives presented a proposal for one game in Tasmania each year from 2014-17.

“The Government has referred the proposal to Events Tasmania for an assessment against rigorous criteria around numbers and duration of stay by visitors and potential for broader community benefits,” Bacon said.

“The government is a strong supporter of events and has prioritised funding for events that occur in traditionally slower winter months and stimulate the local economy.

“We have to ensure that support for events provides a value for money investment.”

In February 2012, North Hobart hosted a full strength practice rugby league game between Melbourne and Brisbane that attracted about 14,000 spectators to Tasmania’s spiritual home of Australian rules football.