Nearly four years after Brisbane secured the 2032 Olympics, Premier David Crisafulli will today unveil his government’s infrastructure plan. The blueprint includes a new 60,000-seat stadium at Brisbane’s Victoria Park and a broader regional spread of events.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate supports the move, calling it a smart economic choice. “The more the Gold Coast can contribute, the less needs to be spent elsewhere,” he said. Olympic gold medalist Cate Campbell also backed the new stadium, saying it would allow Brisbane to showcase itself on the global stage.
Despite earlier election campaign promises not to build a new stadium, Crisafulli’s government has confirmed the project. The stadium will be the centerpiece of an Olympic precinct, alongside a new National Aquatic Centre and an athletes’ village at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
However, the plan faces funding challenges. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is pushing for $2.5 billion to go toward Brisbane Live Arena instead. In response, Crisafulli is expected to scrap the indoor arena project and redirect funds to other venues.
Meanwhile, some sports organizations have raised concerns about event locations. Rowing Australia questioned the suitability of the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, which has yet to undergo official assessments. Hockey officials are also debating whether to use temporary facilities at Ballymore or a permanent option on the Gold Coast.
The Queensland government is now working to “sell” the plan to regional communities amid pushback over the new stadium in the southeast. Ministers will travel across the state this week to address concerns and promote the benefits of the revised Olympic venue strategy.
