The 2032 Olympic Games present a huge opportunity and challenge for Brisbane. The Queensland capital has begun a 100-day site review for an Olympic stadium. Options are plentiful, with choices including the legendary The Gabba or the futuristic Northshore Hamilton.

How is Brisbane preparing for Games and what locations are being considered?

The 2032 Olympic Games seem to be getting closer and closer, and Brisbane, which has won the right to host them, is facing key infrastructure decisions. The Queensland capital , has begun a 100-day review of the options available for a future Olympic stadium. The state government and organisers hope to select a suitable location for it.

The newly elected Liberal National Party (LNP) government has initiated a rapid review of infrastructure options. A panel led by real estate industry expert Stephen Conry is working to assess several potential locations for the main stadium. Decisions will have far-reaching consequences. Finding the golden mean between cost, sporting heritage and residents' expectations remains crucial.

The Gabba - an icon in crisis

One of the most considered and unlikely options is to upgrade The Gabba - a stadium that has been Brisbane's sporting hub for decades. However, its age, small footprint and proximity to East Brisbane Primary School have raised questions.

The redevelopment plan, put forward in 2021 by then Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, was heavily criticised for its high cost and limited technical capacity. An alternative could be to use the site for other urban purposes.

© Zvi Leve (CC BY-SA 2.0) | The Gabba (Brisbane Cricket Ground)

Lang Park - minimalism for the times

Known as Suncorp Stadium, Lang Park remains one of the best rectangular stadiums in Australia. While not suitable for athletics, it is an ideal venue for opening and closing ceremonies. Its current capacity and reputation argue for limiting investment to necessary improvements.

© Vongmonasekar Vuthy | Suncorp Stadium (Lang Park, The Cauldron)

Victoria Park - dream or utopia?

Victoria Park area , currently being revitalised as a green space, is generating mixed emotions. Local residents oppose the idea of building a stadium in the area and politicians are also sceptical.

But some experts, including Andrew Liveris, chairman of the Brisbane 2032 organising committee, see huge potential for the site. Private funding could alleviate cost concerns, but the decision requires broad consensus.

© Archipelago | Design of Victoria Park Olympic Stadium

Northshore Hamilton - a futuristic vision

Northshore Hamilton, located on the outskirts of Brisbane, is a bold and ambitious proposal. The location offers the possibility of a modern stadium adjacent to the Olympic village. However, critics point to its distance from the city centre, which could affect the logistics of the Games.

© Brisbane Design Alliance | Design of Brisbane Olympic Stadium

Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre - a missed opportunity?

A plan to upgrade QSAC for athletics was rejected due to high costs and limited usability after the Games. The facility, although historic, is not up to modern standards and is unlikely to play a key role in 2032.

© Stadiums Queensland | Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre

Roma Street Parklands - a secure investment

Brisbane Arena at Roma Street Parklands, planned as the swimming centre for the Games, is one of the most advanced projects. The federal government's commitment to funding this investment makes it a key piece of Olympic infrastructure.

What's next?

The choice of location for an Olympic stadium in Brisbane is not only a technical issue, but also a social and political one. Each of the options under consideration has its advantages and disadvantages. Gabba and Lang Park represent continuity and tradition, while Victoria Park and Northshore Hamilton open the door to more innovative solutions. The outcome of the 100-day review will be crucial to the success of the Games.