Brisbane Olympic Games’ design set to boost investors’ market
Four Australian peak bodies advocated for essential design and planning strategies ahead of the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to ensure long-term property investment and market growth support.
The Royal Australian Institute of Architects (RAIA), Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA), in collaboration with the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA), and Design Institute of Australia (DIA), have come together to advocate for the implementation of key design and planning strategies for the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The four professional associations submitted a Green Pathways, Gold Places initiative to the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority, calling for infrastructure not only that serves the immediate purpose of hosting the games but also supports sustainable, long-term city planning objectives.
The proposal was submitted in response to a 100-day review that invited public feedback on the infrastructure and planning of the games.
Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) Queensland and Northern Territory state manager, Nicole Bennetts, said the games’ infrastructure and planning are crucial in developing Brisbane’s future and have the potential to amplify Queensland’s appeal as an investment hotspot.
“Major events like the 2032 Games are pivotal for the property market as they can serve as a catalyst for broader regeneration of suburbs, cities and regions,” Bennetts said.
“By adopting a holistic approach, where games’ venues and infrastructure are planned as part of a broader precinct strategy, the benefits extend beyond the event itself.
“Thoughtful integration of housing, commercial uses, transport infrastructure and essential social infrastructure can drive property market investment while fostering vibrant, prosperous communities,” Bennetts said.
Key recommendations include establishing a 2032 Design Coordination Unit within the Office of the Queensland Government Architect, implementing a green grid strategy to promote sustainable transport and an urban Olympic forest, adopting a precinct-based approach to venue planning, and incorporating place-funding models to treat design and place-making as strategic investments rather than expenses.
“This ensures that the games leave a lasting legacy that aligns with the long-term needs of residents and investors alike,” Bennetts said.
The submission emphasises the value of early design integration, which ensures climate-conscious outcomes and avoids costly compromises. It also highlights the need for a green grid strategy to meet the games’ net-positive goals, improve city connectivity, and reduce traffic.
Bennetts noted that good design ensures that places are attractive and resilient, encouraging property investment and supporting market growth.
“On the flip side, a lack of integration and poor coordination can disrupt communities and negatively influence property desirability and market stability,” Bennetts said.
“It’s about balancing short-term goals with long-term value for all stakeholders.”
The submission paper also draws on the London 2012 Games and the Barcelona 1992 Games, where sporting venues were integrated with surrounding urban areas, leveraging the events to boost tourism and property values.
Both cities have had enhanced economic benefits following the games.
“Barcelona’s games were transformative, with the city using the event as a springboard for urban renewal, infrastructure development and global rebranding. This strategic approach continues to yield economic and social benefits many decades later,” Bennetts said.
“Major events often accelerate urban renewal, increase international visibility, and attract new residents and businesses.”
“For Brisbane, similar outcomes are possible if we focus on good planning and design,” Bennetts concluded.