Queensland has made significant progress towards hosting the 2032 Olympic Games, following a vital agreement between state and federal governments regarding infrastructure funding. Officials have formalised plans to finance the construction or enhancement of 17 sporting venues, with the federal government contributing nearly half of the projected $7 billion cost. A notable portion of this funding, amounting to $1.2 billion, is earmarked for the new Victoria Park stadium.
Queensland’s Deputy Premier, Jarrod Bleijie, highlighted the deal’s importance in ensuring consistent infrastructure delivery, which will benefit the industry, local communities, and workers involved. He stated the focus now is on prompt execution of these plans. Moreover, the federal funding includes a requirement for further community engagement concerning the Victoria Park stadium project. Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King mentioned that the Queensland government and Brisbane City Council will collaborate to create a new precinct plan that emphasises access to green spaces.
As part of this initiative, a comprehensive community engagement plan will be drafted, taking into account input from affected communities and First Nations groups. Additionally, discussions regarding transport connectivity have begun, although Bleijie indicated that plans for new rail stations have not yet been solidified.
Geotechnical work, including soil testing at Victoria Park, will commence soon to determine the stadium’s positioning. Simultaneously, tenders have been released for early design work on four smaller venues located in Logan, Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast, and Cairns.
Bleijie expressed confidence that the entertainment precinct at Woollongabba will be operational before the Games, although it is not a designated game site. He reported that there have been 2,200 expressions of interest concerning the project, with initial plans expected to be presented by the end of the year.
Minister King emphasised that the true legacy of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games extends beyond just the sporting events; it also includes lasting benefits for the community and infrastructure development that ignites ongoing growth.