Queensland Government
Australia’s federal government has struck a AUS$7 billion (US$4.8 billion) funding deal with the Queensland state government for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Confirmed:
- Federal government to commit AUS$3.44 billion (US$2.34 billion) in funding, with the rest to come from the state government
- Queensland government to pay AUS$2.7 billion (US$1.8 billion) towards revamping the Gabba stadium
- New 18,000-seater Brisbane Arena to be built at a cost of AUS$2.5 billion (US$1.7 billion), paid by the federal government
- 16 new or upgraded venues will receive improvements jointly funded by both governments, costing about AUS$1.87 billion (US$1.28 billion)
Context:
The rebuild of the Gabba, which was initially set to require AUS$1 billion (US$682 million) in 2021, remains a contentious issue. State MP Amy MacMahon was critical of the redevelopment, calling the project “an obscene waste of public money”. The move will also result in the relocation of the heritage-listed East Brisbane state school, with the state government promising a brand new site in 2026.
Meanwhile, federal MP Max Chandler-Mather denounced the overall funding plans on ABC Radio Brisbane, labelling them as a “disgraceful” misuse of government funds.
Comment:
“I know as a Sydneysider the difference that a Games can make,” said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. “Here in Queensland, this will consolidate this great city as a global city, as a global powerhouse.
“But it benefits not just Brisbane. It will benefit the whole state of Queensland but will also benefit our national economy and that’s why the federal government has an interest in this.”
Coming next:
With funding now agreed, both governments will be working to ensure all construction work can be completed on time and within budget for the 2032 Games.
