The Queensland government is set to unveil the venue plan for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games on March 25, bringing an end to more than 1,200 days of uncertainty surrounding the event.
Brisbane was awarded the Games in 2021, but political disputes, especially concerning the main stadium and athletics venue, have caused significant delays in finalising the venue plans.
The delay in deciding on the venue has been attributed to various issues, particularly disputes over the most suitable location for key infrastructure.
After David Crisafulli was elected Premier of Queensland last November, he appointed a seven-member board to reassess the venue options and help guide the planning process. This board has been tasked with reviewing all potential sites and recommending the best options for the Games.
According to a report from ABC News, an independent panel tasked with reviewing the Games' infrastructure will submit its recommendations to the Queensland government by March 8.
This report will advise on whether a new stadium should be constructed for the Games and where the athletics events should be held.
Earlier this month, the CEO of the Australian Olympic Committee, Matt Carroll, emphasised the importance of finalising the main venues for the 2032 Olympics before June.
This urgency reflects the pressing need to ensure that the Games are properly planned and that sufficient time is available for construction and preparation.
The government intends to consult with key stakeholders, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Commonwealth, before the Cabinet approves the final delivery plan on March 24.
Following this, the official announcement of the venue plan is scheduled for March 25, marking a significant step forward in the preparation for the event.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie expressed confidence that the new delivery plan would set the Games back on track after years of delays.
Speaking to the state parliament on Tuesday, Bleijie stated, “Our delivery plan will provide a new way forward and get the Games back on track after three years of Labor delays and wrong priorities. There is little time to waste.”
He further emphasised that Queensland would deliver an Olympic and Paralympic Games that the state could be proud of, showcasing its strengths to the world.
Former Queensland Premier Steven Miles had previously opposed a redevelopment plan for Brisbane’s Gabba Cricket Ground, which was estimated to cost AUD 2.7 billion.
He also rejected a proposed AUD 3.4 billion Olympic Stadium in Victoria Park. Instead, Miles had suggested using Lang Park for the opening and closing ceremonies, with athletics being held at the outdated QSAC venue.
However, this plan was met with significant criticism from local Olympic champions, who deemed it an “embarrassment.”
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