The Queensland capital was awarded the 2032 Summer Olympics and Paralympics two years ago, returning the Games to Australia for a third time after Melbourne in 1956 and Sydney in 2000. Queensland’s state government will invest Aus$2.7 billion to redevelop the Gabba, expanding its seating by 8,000 to a total of 50,000. In addition, Brisbane’s city centre will receive a new Aus$2.5 billion, 17,000‑seat indoor stadium funded by the federal government. The venue will include a drop‑in swimming pool that can be removed after the Games to create a live‑events space. Another Aus$1.87 billion in state and federal funding will be allocated to 16 new or upgraded venues.
“It is quite clear that we needed to step up and do our part not just to create the best Games but also to leave a lasting legacy for Queensland and for all those who visit this great state,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said at a news conference. He added that other “important milestones” will occur in the lead‑up to 2032, noting that the event “will make an enormous difference to our economy, to our lifestyle, to how Australia is perceived in the world, which is why it is important that we get this right. And I am very confident that we have done just that.”
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said 80 percent of the infrastructure for the Games is already in place. “This will cement Queensland’s place internationally but also, too, it is a lasting legacy for our athletes, our young people and also about creating a healthier lifestyle.”
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