The Queensland Government is attempting to get the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games “back on track” through legislation to accelerate approval of major facilities.
Amendments to the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games Arrangements Act 2021 were introduced to Parliament today, adding a series of projects to the fast-track process.
The amendments will:
- Formally recognise the Brisbane Athlete’s Village in the Act to accelerate planning for the village
- Transfer the land tenure at Victoria Park to Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) to allow works to begin on Brisbane Stadium
- Add the Gabba Arena (part of the Gabba Entertainment and Housing Precinct) to the legislated works schedule
- Add Games-related transport infrastructure to the legislated works schedule, including The Wave – Stage 1, 2 and 3, the Mooloolah River Interchange – Stage 1 and 2, the Coomera Connector – Stage 2, the Cairns Western Arterial Road upgrade and the Shute Harbour Recreational Boating Facility
The Government, in a statement, said the changes would ensure “streamlined approvals and faster delivery to get the Games back on track” after what it described as Games chaos under the previous government.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the amendments would ensure Games-related transport infrastructure across Queensland was delivered on time and maximise “generational” infrastructure legacy for communities for 2032 and beyond.
“Adding key projects to the Act cuts through bureaucratic delays, restores discipline to the program, and gives Queenslanders confidence that essential infrastructure will be delivered on time,” Mr Bleijie said.
“Most importantly, this is about delivering a generational legacy on time and on budget, including better transport connections, more housing supply, renewed precincts, and job creating opportunities for Queenslanders well beyond 2032.”
The amendments followed “extensive engagement with stakeholders across industry, federal and local government, Games delivery partners, and community representatives”.
