The 2032 Olympics, once a distant dream, are now just around the corner, as highlighted by Brisbane teenager Gout Gout’s astonishing 200m national record. This achievement has underscored the urgency for organizers to finalize Games planning, especially as Queenslanders envision a local hero clinching an Olympic sprinting medal. The options for athletics venues and the opening and closing ceremonies are well-documented, but more than three years after Brisbane secured the hosting rights, the site selection remains unresolved due to uneven ambition and political maneuvering.
The Liberal National Party state government, which came to power in October, recently initiated a 100-day review of Olympic venues, fulfilling an election pledge. Led by property veteran Stephen Conry, the seven-member panel is tasked with making critical decisions amidst a flurry of political, architectural, and civic interests. Among the most vocal contributors is Andrew Liveris, president of the Brisbane 2023 Organising Committee’s board, who advocates for a privately financed stadium in Victoria Park, arguing it “makes the most sense.”
The city’s international reputation and concerns over prudent expenditure, legacy infrastructure, and resident opposition mean the panel’s report will be pivotal. The ultimate decision will likely focus on one or two key sites in central Brisbane. Proposals range from rebuilding and renovating existing venues to changing land use, with concerns centering on ageing infrastructure, small footprints, and the importance of venues for AFL and cricket.
The drama surrounding venue selection began in 2021 when former premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced a rebuilt Gabba as the centerpiece for 2032. This decision, criticized for being either a waste of money or physically unfeasible, has since been reconsidered. The Gabba’s tight inner-city footprint and its impact on the adjacent East Brisbane state school have fueled arguments for alternative locations. Additionally, the Gabba’s age and the need to improve the city’s major oval offering have added complexity to the rebuild plans.
Suncorp Stadium, known commercially as Lang Park, remains a strong contender for hosting rugby sevens and football matches. Its 52,000-person capacity makes it a likely choice for the opening and closing ceremonies, potentially leading to further improvements. However, the football community prefers diverting funds to Perry Park, a mid-size venue that could host Olympic matches and serve A-League and state league games.
Victoria Park, one of the largest inner-city green spaces, is a contentious site. While some, like Liveris, advocate for its use in 2032 planning, strong resident opposition and political aversion to new builds have so far thwarted these proposals. The LNP government has committed to no new stadium builds, but the 100-day review’s scope includes new, upgraded, and temporary venues, potentially opening the door to creative solutions.
Northshore Hamilton, adjacent to the planned athlete village, has emerged as a futuristic precinct proposal, complete with ambitious walkways and a major stadium. Meanwhile, the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC), despite its remote location and limited legacy value, was initially slated to host athletics. However, backlash over a $1.6bn temporary upgrade has cast doubt on its Olympic prospects.
The Brisbane Arena at Roma Street, set to host swimming, remains a stable pillar of the Games offering, thanks to a $2.5bn federal government commitment. Despite concerns over cost overruns and the loss of green space, it is likely to receive backing as one of the most expensive single constructions among Games venues.
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