Queensland is progressing towards creating an independent delivery authority for the Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics after legislation for this entity was introduced in the state's parliament. This development stems from a Deloitte report suggesting a "coordination office" within the government to manage infrastructure for the Games, a proposal later adjusted by Premier Steven Miles, advocating for an independent body responsible for infrastructure delivery. The new entity aims not only to oversee construction projects for the 2032 Games but also to usher in long-term infrastructure improvements for the region.
State Development Minister Grace Grace emphasized the importance of getting the opportunity to host the Games right, stating that the government is focused on ensuring the success of this once-in-a-lifetime event. The proposed delivery authority, expected to be formed by mid-year, is set to have a board comprising up to seven members recommended by Games delivery partners. Concurrently, a Senate inquiry in Brisbane scrutinized the city's readiness for the Olympics, with discussions ranging from sporting infrastructure recommendations to criticisms of delays in the planning process.
During the Senate inquiry, opinions varied on infrastructure decisions, with former Brisbane lord mayor Graham Quirk advocating for a new stadium at Victoria Park, an idea that clashed with the state's preference for refurbishing the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre. Additionally, architect Peter Edwards raised concerns about the reactive nature of infrastructure decision-making and supported a proposal to build a stadium at Victoria Park, an idea rejected by former LNP premier Campbell Newman who favored refurbishing the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. This ongoing debate highlights the complexity of decision-making processes surrounding infrastructure development for the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brisbane.