BRISBANE, Australia — In preparation for the 2032 Olympic Games, Brisbane is embarking on an ambitious redevelopment plan that includes constructing a new 60,000-seat stadium in inner-city parkland and establishing diverse tourism-focused venues. Among these attractions are sailing in the picturesque Whitsunday Islands and surfing the Gold Coast, along with a unique rowing event on the crocodile-inhabited Fitzroy River in Rockhampton.
David Crisafulli, the third premier of Queensland within a few years since the International Olympic Committee (IOC) designated Brisbane as the host of the 2032 Olympics, unveiled these plans during a rainy Tuesday conference. He emphasized that the Brisbane Olympics will possess a uniquely Queensland charm, distinguishing them from the previous and upcoming Olympics in Paris and Los Angeles.
More than 1,340 days have elapsed since the IOC’s 2021 decision, and local organizers are yet to break ground on Olympic venue constructions. Crisafulli pushed for action, stating, “The time has come to just get on with it — get on with it, and build,” signaling the start of this enormous undertaking on his 150th day in office. The project encompasses a 25,000-seat aquatics center near the proposed main stadium at Victoria Park, transitioning it from a former golf course to a world-class sports facility.
With seven years left on the clock, federal, state, and local leaders have reached consensus on ceasing venue disputes and commencing construction. Newly appointed IOC president Kirsty Coventry has been briefed by Andrew Liveris, chairman of the 2032 organizing committee, affirming their commitment to a decisive, action-oriented plan. Brisbane stands as the first host city selected under the IOC’s revamped nomination process designed to minimize campaigning and infrastructure costs.
As for safety concerns raised by domestic media about crocodiles at the Olympic rowing venue, Crisafulli assured that similar events have been safely conducted on the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton before. Despite media exaggeration, Sarah Cook, the head of Rowing Australia, noted potential challenges with river currents but not with the crocodiles themselves. Liveris dismissed the fears as sensational, comparing them to common ocean shark warnings.
Changes in plans have been central to the evolution of Brisbane’s Olympics strategy. Initial proposals to transform the iconic Gabba cricket ground into the main Olympic stadium were shelved due to escalating costs and lack of support. Former premier Steven Miles’ alternative to use a rugby stadium was replaced under Crisafulli’s leadership following a government review, which backed refurbished plans for a new parkland stadium.
The new venue plans, while largely supported by key stakeholders like Brisbane Lions and Queensland Cricket, have sparked opposition from community groups. Protesters gathered outside Brisbane’s riverside venue announcement and in Victoria Park, voicing concerns over environmental and community impacts. The Save Victoria Park group is mobilizing legal efforts to halt the stadium’s construction in the expansive park.
Brisbane organizers envision a far-reaching Olympic experience, with sports scattered across coastal regions such as the Gold Coast, Cairns, and Toowoomba’s intended equestrian hub. A previously agreed 50-50 venue funding split between state and federal governments envisaged a budget exceeding 7 billion Australian dollars ($4.4 billion). However, adjustments are being made, including scrapping a planned indoor arena near the city center and reallocating funds for other venues across the state.
Future plans include redeveloping the Gabba into housing post-2032 Olympics, gaining approval from existing principal tenants. The Victoria Park stadium, post-Games, is expected to maintain a diverse multi-use capacity, continuing to serve both sporting events and cultural gatherings.