QLD government approves changes for Brisbane 2032 Olympics
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The Queensland government has approved the majority of recommendations from the independent Sport Venue Review for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Premier Steven Miles expressed gratitude to the independent panel, stating: “No one wants to see money spent on facilities that are only needed for four weeks. Instead, this new direction will deliver decades of benefit to local schools, community athletics programs and Olympic and Paralympic athletes in 2032 and beyond.”
The review, led by former Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, received over 900 submissions and held 130 meetings with stakeholders.
Key upgrades are planned for the Queensland Sports and Athletics Centre (QSAC) and Suncorp Stadium, pending due diligence and consultation with games partners.
The government is also exploring legacy transport opportunities to link QSAC, QEII hospital, and Griffith University with connected precincts in the city.
Minister Grace Grace highlighted the need for consultation with delivery partners and a clear approach for venue development, stating: “The Miles Government now has a clear new approach, and we will be consulting closely with our delivery partners in the Commonwealth government, the IOC, and the IPC to do our due diligence on QSAC and Suncorp and progress as quickly as possible.”
However, the proposed new stadium for Victoria Park has been ruled out, and the rebuild of the Gabba will not proceed.
Instead, upgrades to QSAC and Suncorp Stadium are being prioritised.
QLD Premier Miles explained: “While the concept of a new stadium at Victoria Park has merit, the uncertainty around final cost means it is unfortunately not an option.”
The IOC Vice President, John Coates, emphasised the significance of a QSAC upgrade for the development of athletics in Queensland and Australia, stating: “Athletics Australia will be very pleased that with a QSAC upgrade, Queensland and Australian athletics will be left with a legacy venue for the development of the sport in Queensland.”
Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee President Andrew Liveris voiced the need for swift progress and alignment with the region’s needs, as he stated: “Once decisions are finalised, we will work with the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee to refine our Venue Master Plan and Sport Program, in line with our Olympic Host Contract commitments.”
The Queensland government aims to complete due diligence on venues in the coming months and begin construction.
The Independent Delivery Authority, when established in mid-2024, will oversee the delivery of the sports venue program.
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