Queensland’s architects and urban designers have urged the Brisbane 2032 bosses to look past the debate around individual stadiums and adopt a precinct mindset.
In a joint submission to the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority 100 Day Review, the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA), Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA), Planning Institute of Australia (PIA), and Design Institute of Australia (DIA) have called for integrated and connected precincts to drive decisions on Games venues and infrastructure.
The submission also called for a dedicated 2032 Design Coordination Unit, investment in a Green Grid for sustainable transport and adequate funding to deliver “great places”.
PIA Queensland President Sean Cullen said decisions about Games venues and infrastructure must begin and end with precinct-scale planning to ensure integration with surrounding communities and transport networks.
“To ensure the success of individual venues, we must design them as part of cohesive precincts supported by integrated transport and public realm infrastructure,” Mr Cullen said.
He said this approach positioned venues as catalysts for urban regeneration, maximising social, economic, and environmental benefits for cities and regions.
The submission stated there were many examples of this strategy around the world and cited the Adelaide Oval as a strong case study for a venue spurring significant urban redevelopment and a strong connection into its city’s CBD.
AIA Queensland President Caroline Stalker said a centralised Design Coordination Unit should be established within the Office of the Queensland Government Architect to facilitate any developments.
“Design is key to unlocking the wide-ranging legacy benefits of the Games,” Ms Stalker said.
“Embedding multidisciplinary design expertise early ensures consistent, climate-conscious outcomes while avoiding costly design compromises and urban blight.”
The submission, from the organisations which represent more than 25,000 of the state’s architects, landscape architects, planners and designers, also called for a “Green Grid” to enhance connectivity, reduce vehicle trips and deliver on the Games’ net-positive commitment.
AILA Queensland President Glen Power said green infrastructure was not just about sustainability.
“It’s about creating healthier, more connected, and liveable communities,” Mr Power said.
“By investing in a Green Grid, we can leave a legacy of vibrant, walkable precincts that benefit Brisbane for generations to come.”
Mr Power said research had found that for every $1 invested in walking infrastructure, $13 in benefits were realised.
The submission stated that new funding mechanisms were needed to ensure high-quality design and place outcomes could be delivered.
DIA Immediate Past Queensland Chair Daniel Spat said aligning funding with community-focused design ensured enduring value and avoided the burden of increased lifetime costs on the state.
“By integrating design and place-making into funding strategies, we can deliver community assets that stand the test of time,” Mr Spat said.
