Kirsty Coventry addresses reporters at a press conference after being elected as the new president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The announcement was made during the IOC's 144th session in Costa Navarino, Greece, on Thursday, March 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis)
Brisbane’s vision for the 2032 Olympics has taken a dramatic turn with the unveiling of a brand-new 60,000-seat stadium at Victoria Park. The announcement, made by Queensland Premier David Crisafulli at a Future Brisbane forum, comes as part of a major revision to the event’s planning.
With just seven years left, the focus has shifted from prolonged debates to immediate action. “The time has come to just get on with it,” Crisafulli declared, signalling an urgent push to finalize venues.
A New Plan for a Tight Timeline
When Brisbane secured the Olympic bid in 2021, organizers had 11 years to prepare. However, nearly four years have passed without breaking ground on any new venues. With time running short, federal, state, and local leaders are uniting to move forward.
The revised plan introduces a new Olympic precinct featuring the main stadium and a 25,000-seat aquatics center. These venues will replace earlier proposals that faced delays and budget concerns. Newly elected International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry has been briefed on the changes by Andrew Liveris, chair of the 2032 organizing committee, who assured that planning is now on track.
“This is a go-get-it-done plan,” Liveris said.
Shifting Away from the Gabba
Earlier plans revolved around demolishing and rebuilding the Gabba, a historic cricket stadium, as the centrepiece of the Games. However, skyrocketing costs and waning support from the Australian Olympic Committee led to a shift in strategy. The new plan envisions upgrading an existing rugby stadium for opening and closing ceremonies, while Victoria Park will house the main stadium.
Crisafulli, who initially campaigned against new stadiums, launched another review after taking office. His cabinet approved the updated plan on Monday, aligning with the need for cost-effective solutions.
Rowing Venue Sparks Crocodile Debate
One of the more unusual concerns surrounding the Olympics emerged this week when reports suggested that the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton—chosen as the rowing venue—was home to crocodiles.
Crisafulli dismissed the concerns, pointing out that locals frequently swim and row in the river. "There are sharks in the ocean, yet we still surf and sail," Liveris added, downplaying the risk. While Rowing Australia raised concerns about the river’s current, World Rowing officials are set to assess the venue in May.
Protesters Fight for Victoria Park
The decision to construct the main stadium at Victoria Park has sparked backlash from conservationists and community groups. Protesters gathered at the site, holding signs that read “Hands OFF Victoria Park” while chanting “shame.” The Save Victoria Park group is preparing a legal challenge to halt construction in the 158-acre park.
Olympic Legacy and Regional Benefits
Beyond Brisbane, the Games will bring events to coastal and regional areas, including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Cairns. The federal government, initially set to fund an indoor arena for Olympic aquatics, has now redirected funding to multiple venues.
Under the new blueprint, the Gabba will be demolished after the Games to make way for housing. The Brisbane Lions and Queensland Cricket have supported the transition to Victoria Park, which will expand to 63,000 seats post-Olympics.
