Brisbane 2032: New stadiums and venue upgrades announced

SYDNEY: Queensland State Premier David Crisafulli has unveiled the latest venue plan for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, featuring a new 60,000-seat stadium and a national aquatics centre in an inner-city park. The announcement, made on Tuesday, marks the third revision of the Games’ infrastructure blueprint.

A 20,000-seat boutique stadium will also be built at Brisbane Showgrounds, while some events will be shifted to regional Queensland. Additionally, the Queensland Tennis Centre will undergo upgrades, including a new 3,000-seat showcourt. The historic Gabba will host cricket at the Olympics before being demolished.

The question of venues has been a source of political debate since Brisbane was awarded the Games in 2021. Crisafulli emphasized the need to move forward, stating, “Finally, Queensland has a plan. The time has come to just get on with it. We will.”

A significant change in the plan involves a A$2.5 billion ($1.57 billion) indoor arena and entertainment venue, which was originally to be funded by the federal government. Instead, the project will be put out to private tender, with federal funds redirected to other infrastructure projects.

Crisafulli, who previously opposed new stadium construction during his election campaign, may face criticism for the revised plans. However, with the Games drawing closer, his administration is now focused on delivering the required venues.(Reuters)